Port Douglas to host 2025 Regional Destination IQ Forum

The hosting of a regional conference focusing on First Nations tourism in Port Douglas for the first time is being hailed by industry leaders as an exciting opportunity for the Tropical Far North Queensland.

Industry leaders and stakeholders will gather for the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC)'s 2025 Regional Destination IQ Forum at Oaks Port Douglas Resort on 18th September 18.

Advising of her excitement at Port Douglas hosting the conference, Tourism Port Douglas Daintree Executive Officer, Emma Tunnock was quoted by The Cairns Post as saying “Destination IQ is an important opportunity and forum for the tourism industry to get together, to learn, to gain important insights and to plan for the future and to really connect with each other."

Attendees will hear from international keynote speakers, tourism operators and First Nations leaders, while exploring strategies to strengthen cultural tourism experiences, deepen industry collaboration, and drive sustainable outcomes for communities across the state.

QTIC Chief Executive Natassia Wheeler said the Regional Destination IQ Forum provided a platform for listening, learning and local leadership, noting “this forum represents an opportunity to harness the unique perspectives of the North Queensland region, and to contribute meaningfully to a plan that supports First Nations tourism across the state.

“Our focus is on practical action and inclusive growth – ensuring the industry is positioned to deliver cultural, economic and community benefits for years to come.”

The event will form part of the engagement process for the Queensland First Nations Tourism Plan 2026–2032.

QTIC First Nations Programs Manager Rhonda Appo said the Port Douglas forum would help raise the profile of regional voices, adding "tourism connects people through storytelling, culture and connection to land, and this reflects QTIC’s strong commitment to ensure regional communities can access meaningful events

“Bringing Destination IQ into the region helps bridge the tyranny of distance for remote communities.”