South-East Queensland tourism operators are taking part in a pilot program aimed at building stronger ties with Traditional Custodian Groups in the region.
Developed by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), Queensland First Nations Tourism Council (QFNTC) and the Brisbane Economic Development Agency (BEDA), the Pathways to Inclusivity program aims to enhance cultural awareness and business confidence.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said it looked to foster appropriate engagement between one of Brisbane’s Traditional Custodian Groups, the Quandamooka People, and the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation.
Ms Wheeler said the program aligned with broader efforts to foster a more inclusive and culturally respectful tourism industry.
“True inclusivity requires a commitment to cultural learning and deep listening. This program provided practical insights into Native Title, intellectual property rights, and cultural protocols – areas where many businesses want to do better, but don’t always know where to start,” she said.
Ms Wheeler said the pilot program was offered to tourism operators based in the Brisbane, Redlands and Moreton Bay Local Government Areas, with 15 participants completing three online sessions and a full-day cultural immersion on Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island).
She said the cultural immersion included a guided cultural heritage tour, a visit to QUAMPI, the island’s new arts and cultural centre, and an exploration of Country through Minjerribah Camping and the North Gorge Walk at Point Lookout.
Brisbane Economic Development Agency CEO Anthony Ryan said the program reflected a shared commitment to building a tourism industry that was inclusive, future-focused and deeply connected to place.
“Brisbane’s visitor economy goes beyond events and attractions,” Mr Ryan said.
“It’s grounded by our local stories, our people, and our cultural identity. By, supporting tourism operators to engage meaningfully with Brisbane’s Traditional Custodians, we not only enrich the visitor experience but also help embed cultural respect and understanding at the heart of our industry,” he said.
Ms Wheeler said QTIC and QFNTC were exploring options to deliver future rounds of the program, with a view to embedding cultural inclusion more deeply across the tourism sector.
