New owners announced for renowned Sunshine Coast’s Creative Tours

New owners have been announced for one of the Sunshine Coast’s most highly regarded tourism operators, Creative Tours.

After years of delivering bespoke food and drink experiences, the award-winning tour company will transition to new ownership, ensuring its legacy of showcasing the best of the Sunshine Coast’s local producers, distilleries, breweries, and restaurants continues to thrive.

The new owners, Jamie Marshall and Carly Wilkinson, are passionate advocates for small business and local tourism, bringing extensive experience in the industry and appreciation for the Sunshine Coast’s vibrant food and beverage scene. With a strong background in tourism, they are eager to build on the business’s success and continue offering guests an authentic taste of the region.

Marshall and Wilkinson have over 15 years of experience in the tourism, travel, and food and drink industries, with a specialised background in high-end superyacht services and local tourism in Europe and the South Pacific regions.

Raised on the French canals where his parents ran restaurant and vineyard tours from their 30-meter canal barge, Marshall developed a deep connection to local agriculture and authentic experiences. Fluent in English, French and Spanish, he brings a true passion for regional produce and working with small, family-run businesses, including wineries, breweries, and distilleries.

With their expertise in luxury travel and passion for supporting local tourism, Marshall and Wilkinson thrive in creating unique, personalised experiences that showcase the best of local culture and gastronomy.

Marshall enthused "we are incredibly excited to take on this amazing business and continue its mission of connecting people with the incredible producers, chefs, and brewers who make the Sunshine Coast such a special destination.

"Creative Tours has built a stellar reputation, and I’m looking forward to enhancing the experience while staying true to its core values, local connections, unique behind-the-scenes access, and, most importantly, great food and drink."

A Smooth Transition and Exciting Future
Founded in 2016 by Josh Donohoe(pictured above), Creative Tours has established a reputation as a leader and pioneer in the Sunshine Coast tourism industry, offering curated experiences that bring visitors closer to the origins of their food and drink. The company has built strong partnerships with local industry groups such as the Food Agribusiness Network and local venues and businesses including Sunshine & Sons Distillery, Your Mates Brewing, Falls Farm, Mapleton Public House, and many more, providing guests with exclusive, behind-the-scenes experiences.

Outgoing owner, Donohoe, has been at the heart of Creative Tours’ growth and success, earning accolades and industry recognition along the way. While stepping away from ownership, he will continue to be involved in the tourism industry, ensuring his expertise and passion remain a part of the Sunshine Coast’s visitor economy.

"It’s been an incredible journey growing Creative Tours into what it is today. I’m so proud of the experiences we’ve been able to create, and the local partnerships and support we have received along the way," said Donohoe.

"I’m excited to see the new owners take the business to the next level and bring fresh energy to the team. This isn’t goodbye, just a new chapter for all of us”

Continuing to Champion Local Experiences
Creative Tours remains committed to its mission of delivering premium food and beverage experiences across the Sunshine Coast. Under new ownership, guests can expect the same high-quality tours that celebrate the region’s producers, with new ideas and innovations on the horizon, including a new tour as part of the upcoming GourMAY event in the Mary Valley.

From corporate groups and special celebrations to visitors seeking an authentic Sunshine Coast experience, Creative Tours will continue to be the go-to operator for those looking to taste, sip, and explore the best the region has to offer.

More information on Creative Tours

Image top: Creative Tours new owners Jamie Marshall and Carly Wilkinson; Image centre: Creative Tours former owner Josh Donohoe winner of two gold awards at the Queensland Tourism Awards; Image below: Creative Tours food and beverage experiences.