EO Update, 30 Sept 25

Executive Officer Message

It has been an important few weeks for TPDD on the international stage, with my travels to Australia Marketplace North America and Queensland Is Calling UK & Europe showcasing the strength of our destination in key global markets. Alongside these trade engagements, TPDD hosted a North American famil in Port Douglas, secured major media coverage both locally and internationally, continued to see strong results from our Spring Is Even Better Up Here campaign, and contributed to important industry forums and community celebrations at home. We are delighted to see these efforts reflected in rising occupancy data, with strong momentum building as we head into summer and continue our efforts to keep Port Douglas and the Daintree front of mind for both travellers and trade.

At Marketplace North America, Port Douglas and the Daintree stood out as a destination perfectly aligned with high-value US and Canadian travellers, those seeking longer stays, luxury experiences, and the unique blend of reef, rainforest, and tropical village charm. The new Nadi–Cairns Fiji Airways service was met with strong enthusiasm, opening new pathways into our region. To complement this, TPDD hosted a famil dinner at Salsa Bar & Grill, with North America delegates also experiencing the destination first-hand through a tailored program of activities.

In the UK and Europe, enthusiasm for Australia as a safe and aspirational long-haul destination remains strong. For Port Douglas and the Daintree, the focus continues to be on luxury, sustainability, and authentic experiences, areas where we excel. These engagements strengthen our trade partnerships and ensure our members remain front of mind with key buyers in two of our most valuable international markets.

Back at home, the team has been busy with impactful achievements, from securing widespread media coverage of Lumir’s arrival to celebrating major German editorial coverage of the Daintree Rainforest in the Nordwest Zeitung. We also joined community celebrations for the Splash Park opening at Jalunbu Park and contributed to industry discussions at the QTIC Regional Destination IQ Forum.

As we head into the summer season, these combined efforts across trade, media, and local advocacy continue to build momentum for our destination, ensuring Port Douglas and the Daintree capture attention, inspire travel, and deliver strong results for our members.

Thank you, as always, for your support and collaboration as we showcase the best of Port Douglas and the Daintree.

Warm regards,
Emma