The future of tourism in the North Burnett and Bundaberg regions is up for discussion.
Stakeholders ranging from North Burnett-Bundaberg business leaders to regional tourism organisations and local and state representatives will gather at a series of workshops and events from 31 January to 19 February.
This will be an opportunity to refine a strategic direction and ambitious targets for the tourism industry for the next two decades.
In a June 2024 meeting, the North Burnett Regional Council voted to maintain their alignment with the Bundaberg region’s coastal tourism market, and therefore North Burnett residents will have their opportunity to share at a tourism workshop in Monto later this month.
Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid noted that the Southern Great Barrier Reef Region’s visitor economy has been thriving.
“[It’s] the strongest it’s ever been off the back of decades of hard work and positive partnership, and the future holds unprecedented opportunity for the tourism sector,” she said.
Ms Reid shared it was crucial to have a fresh look at the region’s tourism goals.
“The region’s tourism landscape is rapidly evolving amidst shifting consumer expectations and a fiercely competitive global marketplace and the need for agile and future-focused strategies will assist in navigating challenges such as rising living costs and business expenses,” Ms Reid said.
“Strong leadership, proactive partnerships and fresh thinking are crucial factors in the region’s long-term success, and strategic investment is imperative to harness this growth sustainably.”
Consultations are now open with stakeholders given a chance to have their say during the various workshops or in an online survey.
“We are asking the tourism industry as well as stakeholders from all levels of government, community groups, businesses and anyone who has an interest in seeing our region develop to have an input,” Ms Reid said.
The Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future workshops were held earlier this week in Bundaberg on 4 February and Gladstone on 5 February.
These workshops focused on shaping a visionary 20-year plan which reflects the diverse communities and vibrant tourism industry in the North Burnett and Bundaberg.
Attendees had an opportunity to guide the region’s direction regarding ecotourism, the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games legacy, investment attraction, experience development, access and connectivity and events delivery.
The Southern Great Barrier Reef Destination Management Plan workshops delved into the plan which unlocks funding for the destination, identifies game changes and key strategic priorities which will set up the destination for tourism success.
These workshops investigate how tourism drives income, employment opportunities and infrastructure development, and were held at Agnes, Town Of 1770, Bundaberg and Gladstone earlier this week.
A workshop will be held at the Albert Hotel in Monto on Wednesday, 19 February from 11am to 3pm. To register visit bit.ly/3WnpD0H
Stakeholders unable to attend the workshops can also contribute to an online survey and share their thoughts on visitor experience gaps, product opportunities, infrastructure needs and tourism engagement. The survey can be accessed online: bit.ly/4afijdn
Read more about the North Burnett councils decision to continue its partnership with Bundaberg tourism here:
