30 July 2025: The Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Board is visiting Cairns and Port Douglas this week to hear directly from local operators about the challenges and opportunities facing the Tropical North – and to ensure regional voices are shaping state-level action.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the visit reflects the organisation’s commitment to active, on-the-ground engagement across Queensland’s regions, with a particular focus on Tropical North Queensland – home to QTIC’s largest share of members.
“Our job is to listen, to understand, and to make sure those insights translate into action,” Wheeler said. “Being here in person is the best way to do that.”
Across meetings with Cairns Regional Council, Douglas and Cassowary Coast Shires, Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ), the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA), Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree (TPDD) and leading tourism businesses, several consistent issues have emerged.
Wheeler said while the region experienced a strong school holiday period, forward domestic bookings are uncertain.
“International demand is very strong – that’s the good news,” she said. “But domestic softness and cost pressures continue to challenge operators across the region.”
Funding models for tourism infrastructure are also under the spotlight, particularly in low-population areas experiencing high visitor numbers.
“In Douglas Shire, for example, there are 12 visitors to every resident each year. That puts enormous pressure on local infrastructure and services,” Wheeler said. “In areas like this, we need sustainable funding solutions that reflect the true scale of visitor impact – not just population.”
Insurance affordability and access remains a critical concern, with operators continuing to face premiums and excesses that threaten long-term viability.
As part of the visit, the QTIC Board is also meeting with Assistant Minister for Tourism Industry Development Bree James, Member for Cairns Michael Healy, and regional leaders across local government and industry.
Wheeler, who was recently appointed to the Board of the Wet Tropics Management Authority, said collaboration across government, environment and industry sectors is vital for long-term tourism sustainability.
Wheeler also attended yesterday’s announcement at Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, where the iconic attraction confirmed an $85 million upgrade coinciding with its 30th anniversary. The investment is aimed at securing Skyrail’s position as Tropical North Queensland’s leading commercial tourism experience for the next three decades.
“Tropical North Queensland is one of the pillars of Queensland tourism – not just in volume, but in diversity, innovation and natural value,” Wheeler said. “Our role is to support that strength with real solutions and sustained advocacy.”
Ends.
For more information, images and interviews please contact Heather or Jen at The Comms. People:
Heather Mollins | 0412421411 | heather@commspeople.au
Jennifer Swaine | 0438952830 | jen@commspeople.au
