Cairns Regional Council has endorsed the Tropical North Queensland Events Strategy, a plan for the future of events planning throughout the region.    

The purpose of the Events Strategy is to attract and host events of "national significance" with a strong focus on sport and cultural activities.    

The recently completed TNQ Events Strategy was a joint undertaking by Cairns Regional Council, Tourism Queensland and Tourism Tropical North Queensland.


According to Rob Giason, CEO of Tourism Tropical North Queensland, who worked closely with a specialist consultant to develop the report, the TNQ Events Strategy will provide a strong platform for Council and other stakeholders to develop major participation events and drive growth in visitation for the region’s tourism businesses.   

“The report also offers great potential for positive media coverage outside the region, showcasing Tropical North Queensland as a major tourism and events destination, and providing commercial opportunities for fresh tropical food and culture.” Mr Giason said.

The report, compiled by Willconsult, confirms that major events have the capacity to attract overnight and longer stay participants and spectators from outside the region.  

Mayor Val Schier said the new strategy identified opportunities across a range of event categories.   “This can only mean increased investment and interest in our wonderful region, and that has to be a good thing for everyone, tourist and locals alike.”   

“Not only does this strategy give us a firm direction to follow in terms of the type of events we will pursue, but it strongly supports events that feature the region’s natural environment and have high participation,” said Cr Schier.     

“Major cultural events, national and international sporting events, national championships, and events that capitalise on the region’s adventure experiences are high on our target list.