EO Update 31 Oct 2025

It’s a dynamic period for our destination, with key milestones, events, and achievements reflecting the strength and unity of our tourism community.

First, a quick but important reminder that the TPDD Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday, 10 November at the Pullman Port Douglas Sea Temple Resort & Spa. Proxy forms are due by 5pm, Wednesday, 5 November.

We’ve also released the 2024–2025 Annual Report, celebrating another year of impactful marketing, partnership-driven outcomes, and continued growth in our region’s visitor economy.

The Ignite “My Queensland Holiday” campaign wrapped up in the last fortnight, delivering outstanding results and strong flow-on benefits for the region. With over 3,000 room nights, 579 bookings, and $2.19 million in gross sales, the campaign achieved more than $1 million in media value from a $25,000 TPDD investment, exceeding forecasts by over 70%. It also attracted high-value travellers, particularly from NSW (40%) and Victoria (32%), and was further amplified through bonus national media placements and digital distribution via Flight Centre and ALDI Holidays, significantly boosting destination visibility and conversion.

Planning is already underway for our next shoulder season, with campaign briefs now in market with media and OTA partners to deliver another strong 2026 program. We’ll be sharing details shortly, including opportunities for member participation and buy-in.

Our team is working on a new content project to capture fresh, aspirational imagery and video showcasing the beauty, diversity, and experience of the Port Douglas and Daintree region.

This week, TPDD was delighted to host a China Market Update with TTNQ’s Harriet Ganfield and Trip.com’s Kevin Shimota, sharing valuable insights into the evolving Chinese traveller and what this means for our destination. With growing demand for FIT and tailor-made experiences focused on nature, wellness, food, and culture, Port Douglas and the Daintree are ideally positioned to capture this market.

Looking ahead, the DestinationQ Forum 2025 will take place on Thursday 13 November in Brisbane, focusing on Queensland’s tourism future through sessions on Destination 2045, AI in marketing, nature-based tourism, workforce development, and First Nations Tourism. Delegates can also access Qantas flight discounts and special hotel rates as part of Tourism Week.

Our region also continues to shine with recent industry recognition:

• John Morris – awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the TTNQ Tourism Industry Awards for his decades of contribution to shaping Port Douglas since 1974.

• Salsa Bar & Grill – received Bronze for Best Contemporary Australian Restaurant at the 2025 Hostplus Awards for Excellence — their second consecutive national honour and a remarkable achievement in their 30th year.

• Sheraton Grand Mirage Resort – named 2025 Event Hotel of the Year at the Australian Event Awards and Symposium, celebrating excellence in hospitality and events delivery.

Thank you all for your continued engagement and support. Your collaboration, innovation, and passion continue to drive the success of our destination and ensure Port Douglas and the Daintree remain among Australia’s most inspiring places to visit.

Emma