Queensland's Scenic Rim region achieves globally-recognised ECO Destination Certification

The Scenic Rim region has announced its achievement of ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, underscoring its strong commitment to sustainable tourism.

As the first destination to achieve certification in 2025, the Scenic Rim becomes the sixth in Queensland and the 12th in Australia to earn this prestigious recognition.

Located an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana rainforests, dramatic landscapes and six National Parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, savour award-winning local produce, and experience the region’s warm hospitality.

Announcing the achievement, Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive, Elissa Keenan stated "as a hub for ecotourism, the Scenic Rim is home to iconic pioneers like Binna Burra Lodge, O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Mount Barney Lodge and Araucaria Ecotours, alongside a further nine Ecotourism Australia certified businesses offering exceptional sustainable experiences for eco-conscious travellers.

“We are immensely proud of the Scenic Rim’s commitment to promoting responsible travel and showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity.

“This certification underscores the Scenic Rim’s dedication to implementing sustainable tourism strategies aligned with global best-practice standards. By fostering high-quality nature-based experiences and advancing sustainable destination management, the region strengthens its position as a leader in responsible tourism,” Ms Keenan said.

Scenic Rim Mayor, Tom Sharp added “tourism is one of the Scenic Rim’s most valuable industries. Achieving ECO Destination Certification reinforces our commitment to sustainable practices, creating better places for locals and visitors alike. This recognition inspires deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving our extraordinary landscapes.”

This significant milestone was led by Scenic Rim Regional Council in collaboration with local tourism operators and stakeholders. The certification process was made possible through support from the Queensland Government and WWF-Australia.

The Queensland Government through the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (formerly the Department of Tourism and Sport) provided grant funding in 2023-2024 for regions across the state to undertake or complete ECO Destination Certification.

Support for the program was also provided from WWF-Australia's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWF-Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help 11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism.

Mayor Sharp went on to say "this achievement would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Council and Ecotourism Australia, as well as essential funding support from both the Queensland Government and WWF Australia."

This certification aligns with the Queensland Government’s ambition to become a global leader in ecotourism. Certification will help the Scenic Rim leverage the growth in demand for nature-based tourism, foster job creation, and enhance community services and facilities – including leveraging the tourism opportunities of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, the Scenic Rim joins a global network of more than 160 destinations in 60 countries through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations.

Images: Morans Falls in the Lamington National Park (top) and the Scenic Rim from the air (below).