THE WHITSUNDAYS have been in the spotlight recently, as a region leading the way in balancing environmental stewardship with vibrant visitor experiences.
The Whitsundays took centre stage in Queensland’s tourism sustainability agenda recently, as industry leaders, tourism operators and environmental champions gathered in the region to explore the future of eco-conscious tourism.
Timed to coincide with World Environment Day, the event was held on June 5, at the Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the event not only shone a spotlight on the Whitsundays as a region but was part of a broader effort to embed sustainability across Queensland’s visitor economy.
The initiative supports tourism operators to adopt climate-smart practices and celebrate the unique environments that underpin the state’s tourism appeal.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the event highlighted both the urgency and opportunity for the tourism industry to take a leading role in protecting the natural assets it depends on.
“The Whitsundays is one of Queensland’s most spectacular destinations – and it was the perfect place to spotlight the role tourism can play in protecting what makes it so special,” Ms Wheeler said.
“This event was about learning from the region’s passionate operators, Traditional Owners and environmental leaders, and putting sustainability at the centre of how we move forward as an industry.”
The day featured a series of thought-provoking panel discussions, local case studies and collaborative workshops.
There were contributions from Traditional Owner groups, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, ecotourism operators, and regional tourism organisations.
Speakers at the event included Christian Bennett, Chief Corporate Affairs and Sustainability Offer at Virgin Australia, Robbie Congoo – Owner of Yooribaya Cultural Experiences, Johnny Gaskell – Marine Biologist from the Great Barrier Reef Foundation, Nigel Greenaway – CFO at Crystalbrook Collection, and Amanda Camm MP.
