This week always serves as a reminder of the strength, resilience and ambition that defines Queensland tourism, and this year that feeling has been especially powerful.

We began the week with a truly inspiring DestinationIQ Forum. More than 300 operators, community leaders, Traditional Custodians and government partners came together for a day filled with connection and purpose. The conversations we shared around cultural leadership, opportunity and the future of First Nations tourism set a meaningful tone for the days ahead.

What resonated most was the energy in the room. From George Rose’s reflections on the power of culture and storytelling, to the thoughtful discussions on business readiness and collaboration, Destination IQ reinforced something we already know: First Nations tourism is one of Queensland’s greatest strengths. The momentum is real, and the commitment from across industry to grow and support this sector continues to deepen.

Today, we are well into DestinationQ Forum, where that same spirit of partnership is on full display. With our “Driving Queensland’s Global Advantage” theme front and centre, we have seen incredibly valuable dialogue between operators, destination leaders and policymakers. Importantly, this year’s forum has created more space than ever for direct engagement, with delegates able to put questions to Ministers and senior decision makers in real time, ensuring open and honest discussion about the challenges we face and the opportunities ahead.

This is what Tourism Week is all about: a genuine Team Queensland approach.

And tomorrow night, we turn our attention to the 40th annual Queensland Tourism Awards, an extraordinary milestone. While the celebrations are yet to begin, I know our finalists represent the very best of Queensland: innovative, resilient and community minded businesses who continue to elevate our industry and inspire one another. The Awards are more than recognition. They are a testament to the dedication and professionalism that underpin our state’s visitor economy.

Thank you to everyone who has contributed to Tourism Week so far. Your openness, your leadership and your willingness to collaborate are what make Queensland’s tourism industry world class. I am excited for the conversations still to come, and even more excited for what we will achieve together as we look toward 2032 and beyond.