A First Nations-led tourism strategy aims to expand Indigenous-owned businesses and cultural experiences across Townsville North Queensland.
Developed through consultation with First Nations tourism operators and community representatives, the Townsville North Queensland First Nations Tourism Strategy sets a vision for cultural tourism to become a defining part of the region's visitor economy by 2045.
Bwgcolman man and Palm Island Aboriginal Shire Council Mayor Alf Lacey identified opportunities for communities to share their stories and build economic opportunities for future generations.
"This strategy is about telling our stories our way and creating greater economic opportunities for future generations," Mr Lacey said.
"It fits really well with the investment Palm Island has received to develop new walking trails, helping us build on that momentum and become a tourism destination that highlights both Country and culture.
"We'll be working closely with the community to make sure our tourism offering is delivered in a way that respects culture, benefits the people and showcases everything the Island has to offer."
Growing interest in First Nations tourism
The strategy comes amid growing interest in First Nations tourism, with Tourism Research Australia data showing three million trips included a First Nations tourism experience in 2023-24, an increase of 22 per cent compared with 2019.
Potential land and sea Country experiences include cultural walking trails, storytelling, rock art and heritage site visits, marine and land management activities, catch-and-cook and bush food experiences, and engagement with Indigenous artists and knowledge holders.
Bindal and Birriah Traditional Owner and South Sea Islander woman Leah Saltner, founder and managing director of Saltner Consulting, highlighted the role of collaboration in developing Indigenous-led tourism businesses.
"Strong Indigenous tourism offers visitors meaningful and immersive experiences of exploring beautiful country, learning about ancient cultures and embracing our natural North Queensland landscapes," Ms Saltner said.
"By working together, we can build on what already exists and creates the right foundations for First Nations tourism that is Indigenous-led, sustainable and provides genuine tourism business opportunities."
'An incredible way to create a genuine connection between visitors and Country'
Connecting visitors with the people who care for Country is central to the work of Nywaigi Traditional Owner and Mungalla Aboriginal Tours managing director Jacob Cassady.
"Indigenous-led tourism is an incredible way to create a genuine connection between visitors and Country," Mr Cassady said.
"We've seen first-hand people don't just want to see the landscape - they want to understand its history and hear its stories from the people who have cared for it for thousands of years."
The strategy provides a pathway to strengthen existing cultural experiences and support new operators, with Townsville Enterprise director of visitor economy and marketing Lisa Woolfe identifying cultural, social and economic benefits for communities.
"This strategy is about walking with our Traditional Owners, First Nations tourism operators, businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs to strengthen existing cultural tourism experiences while creating opportunities for new ones to grow and thrive," Ms Woolfe said.
"Shaped by First Nations voices, it provides a clear pathway towards a shared vision where culture and tourism come together with respect and authenticity.
"As our visitor economy continues to grow, investing in First Nations tourism will strengthen our visitor offering while delivering lasting cultural, social and economic benefits for Indigenous communities across the region."
The strategy is supported by the Queensland and Australian governments.
