Mackay Regional Council has been announced as the host of the 2024 Australian Regional Tourism (ART) Convention, which is set to be held from 9-11 October 2024.
Located in the heart of Queensland, Mackay, is home to Australia’s longest stretch of subtropical rainforest and is famous for its history as one of Australia’s largest sugarcane farming regions. It presents numerous opportunities to explore nature and the region’s multitude of national parks.
Australian Regional Tourism Chair, Joel Chadwick, said that ART is excited to be working with Mackay Regional Council to deliver the convention.
“The convention is renowned as the preeminent event for industry stakeholders to share insights, network, and collaborate,” Mr Chadwick said.
“With the recent surge in attendance, attracting over 200 delegates in recent years, it is evident that interest in growing Australia’s regional tourism sector is on the rise.”
Mackay Regional Council Mayor, Greg Williamson, said that it was an exciting coup for the region to host the prestigious event.
“We know that Mackay is the best place in Australia to live, work and invest, and what better way to show off our fantastic region than by hosting the Australian Regional Tourism Convention,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Our tourism businesses are integral in driving investment into our communities, supporting sustainable growth and job creation.
“We have some outstanding, not to mention award-winning, tourism businesses here and council is committed to supporting them to shine so they can promote the liveability of the region.”