Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation

Planned burns & Cyclone Alfred ... a rare opportunity on Lizard Island 🔥 Tropical Cyclone Alfred may have brought wild weather, but it also created ideal conditions for an important planned burn on Lizard Island National Park (located off the coast of Cook Town). Planned burns are key to reducing bushfire risk and keeping our Great Barrier Reef islands healthy, but in the tropics, wet and humid conditions often make them tricky. With Alfred drawing moisture away from Far North Queensland, QPWS Rangers and Dingaal Traditional Owners (Hope Vale) acted fast, successfully burning 15 hectares 🙌 Here’s why this planned burn was a big win 👇 ✔ Bushfire protection – reduced fuel loads near Lizard Island Resort, helping safeguard against late-season wildfires. ✔ Pest control – opened up access for crews to tackle invasive guinea grass before it spreads further (burning helps crews access the area and treat the guinea grass regrowth before it sets seed). ✔ Timing – coordinated with Lizard Island resort to carry out the burn while it was closed, minimising disruptions (and resort staff helped with fire break preparation) ... many hands make light work ✋ ✔ Supporting ecosystems – fire plays a vital role in maintaining Queensland’s unique landscapes and biodiversity 🌿 Fire isn’t just a tool; it’s an essential part of our environment and culture 💛 #QueenslandEnvironment

Indigenous female rangers are making incredible contributions in Queensland and across Australia🎉 The Queensland Indigenous Womens Ranger Network (QIWRN) has stood as a beacon of dedication – tirelessly supporting, mentoring, empowering, and celebrating women rangers. Recently more than 100 Queensland female rangers attended the 11th Queensland forum where they shared their stories about their work caring for land and water, explored challenges and discussed ways to support, advocate and make a difference. This year marks a momentous chapter as QIWRN expands to become the Indigenous Women Rangers Network (IWRN), welcoming women rangers from across the country into its folds. The enthusiasm was strong as over 200 women rangers from every corner of Australia, including those from the Torres Strait islands, convened at the very first National Forum from March 4-6, 2025. As proud sponsors of the 1st National Forum, we celebrate the unique perspectives and invaluable traditional ecological knowledge and skills that Indigenous Women Rangers contribute to the conservation of our lands. QIWRN is backed by the Queensland Indigenous Land and Sea Ranger Program (QILSRP) and with the support of the Great Barrier Reef Foundation. 🔗 Are you eager to learn more? Find out more on their website: https://lnkd.in/gyjWzH8t #IWRN #IndigenousWomenRangersNetwork #QueenslandIndigenousWomenRangersNetwork Images provided by the QIWRN

When heavy rain caused flooding in the Simpson Desert, 66-year-old Tony Woolford found himself stranded for five days without phone service. The situation became increasingly daunting as rising floodwaters threatened his vehicle, but thanks to the efforts of our dedicated ranger, Don Rowlands, and emergency services, Tony was airlifted to safety. His story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of checking weather forecasts and being prepared when traveling in Queensland's remote areas. Don, who coordinated the rescue, advises all travellers to always be aware of weather warnings before venturing into challenging terrains. A big shout-out to Ranger Don Rowlands and his team for their exceptional coordination and support during this rescue! 🙌

The future of science is bright in Queensland! The Queensland Government is investing almost $500,000 to inspire students to pursue STEM careers with hands-on activities and events across the state. Grants of up to $20,000 have been awarded to 28 recipients through the Engaging Science Grants program. These projects include community science festivals & education programs aimed at engaging groups traditionally under-represented in STEM 🙌 One of our recipients Cairns and Far North Environment Centre (CAFNEC) aims to raise awareness of the rich biodiversity and importance of tidal wetlands (mangroves and saltmarsh) ecosystems with primary schools 🌿 Students learn about tidal wetlands from both a Western and Traditional perspective by engaging with Madjaybana rangers and a tidal wetlands expert. What an excursion! To learn more about the 2025 recipients 👉 https://lnkd.in/ga8-7x2v #QueenslandEnvironment #QueenslandScience

📣Kickstart 2025 with the Tourism Business Digital Adaptation Program - now open! 💻✨   You can apply if you: ➡️ Are an eligible businesses can receive a rebate of $2,500. ➡️ Want to gain access to webinars, resources, and trials of digital products.   Let us paint a picture of how this could amp up your business: website creation ➡️ online booking systems ➡️ payment gateways ➡️ point of sale systems ➡️ back-end financial systems ➡️ customer relationship management tools ➡️ integrated social media engagement tools ➡️ future-focused digital support tools (i.e. chatbots) This strategy is a collaborative effort, funded by Digital Queensland, led by us, and delivered by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council 🙌   For more information, visit https://lnkd.in/gGsdqvTh   Applications open now.

📢 Job Opportunity Alert 📢 ➡️ Team Leader (PO4), Environmental Services and Regulation (ESR) In this position you will work closely with the Compliance Delivery Manager to lead a dedicated and professional team that will be responsible for managing day-to-day planning, operation and support the team to meet its objectives. You will have responsibility for key deliverables while contributing to the implementation of environmental management and protection strategies and promote compliance with environmental legislation, regulations and policies. Closing: 09-Apr-2025 https://lnkd.in/ekQMtCeK

In case you missed it, Queensland claimed somewhat of a spotlight at the Australian Tourism Awards! With six gold, three silver and three bronze wins plus a large group of finalists, it’s clear our state is home to some of the most incredible tourism experiences in the country. From epic outback festivals to luxury stays and world-class tours, Queensland truly has it all. 🏆 But these wins aren’t just about the businesses taking home awards - they represent the entire Queensland tourism industry, from local operators to luxury stays, restaurants, and adventure experiences. Every business plays a role in making Queensland an unforgettable place to visit. And the best part? Queensland is open for business, and it’s Too Great to Wait! 🌴🚤 Whether you're planning an outback escape, a coastal getaway, or a food and wine adventure, now is the perfect time to explore everything our state has to offer. Stay tuned as we share more about this year’s winners and the incredible experiences waiting for you across Queensland.

👋 Meet T 7812 👋 On a recent trip to Raine Island National Park (Scientific), our Rangers were turtle-y excited to see green turtle T 7812 making tracks on the island. She was first identified and tagged in 1984, and this year marks the 40th anniversary since Rangers first encountered her.    It is estimated that she is at least 70 years old (if not older!). This nesting season, she is expected to lay an average of 7 clutches, which amounts to around 700 eggs! Since she was first observed 40 years ago, it is estimated that she has laid over 5,000 eggs! 😮   🐢 Raine Island supports the world’s largest remaining green turtle nesting population  🐢Turtles come back to the region to lay their eggs where they were born  🐦 The island is also the most important seabird rookery in the #GreatBarrierReef   🐦 Eighty-four bird species have been recorded at Raine Island and 16 species are known to breed on the island  #QueenslandEnvironment With thanks to: Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water Wuthathi-Aboriginal-Corporation Meriam Nation (Ugar, Mer, Erub) People

Well....that was an outstanding night for Queensland at the Australian Tourism Awards. 🌟 With six gold, three silver, and three bronze wins, it was one of our best hauls yet. We extend our congratulations to all the winners and finalists for their dedication and excellence in shaping the state's tourism landscape. Queensland continues to shine as a world-class destination, and it's incredible to see so many local businesses recognised for their contributions. 🌴✨ 🏆Gold: 👉Festivals & Events: Birdsville Big Red Bash 👉Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences: Cape York Peninsula Lodge 👉Tour & Transport Operators: Fun Over 50 Holidays- Immersive Tours and Adventures 👉Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services: Sea World Cruises Dining Experiences 👉Caravan & Holiday Parks – Hall of Fame Inductee: BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort 👉5-Star Luxury Accommodation: The Reef House Adults Retreat 🥈 Silver: 👉Major Festivals & Events: Beef Australia 2024 👉Visitor Information Services: Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery 👉Self Contained Accommodation: Pinnacles, Airlie Beach 🥉 Bronze: 👉Major Tour & Transport Operators: Ocean Rafting 👉Adventure Tourism: Aquascene Magnetic Island 👉4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation: Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort We are incredibly proud of these achievements and the dedication of all involved in Queensland’s tourism industry. Join us in celebrating their success and continued contribution to making Queensland a must-visit destination.

Good luck to our Queensland nominees at tonight's Australian Tourism Awards! The Australian Tourism Awards are the pinnacle of recognition in the industry, celebrating outstanding businesses and individuals who create exceptional experiences. Whether it’s luxurious accommodation, thrilling adventure tourism, or eco-friendly travel, Queensland continues to lead the way in offering unforgettable journeys for visitors. 🏆 A huge congratulations to our talented finalists: Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience Beef Australia 2024 Birdsville Big Red Bash Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary Cape York Peninsula Lodge Sonia Jones Travel Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum and Gallery Cedar Creek Lodges Ocean Rafting Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures Aquascene Magnetic Island Explore Rockhampton Accessible Tourism Campaign Sea World Cruises BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort The Country House at Hunchy Mitchell Grass Retreat Pinnacles, Airlie Beach Great Keppel Island Hideaway Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort The Reef House Adults Retreat Vertigo These nominees showcase the diverse and vibrant tourism experiences Queensland has to offer, from the remote outback to the pristine beaches. Tourism not only drives our economy but also supports local communities and creates jobs across our state. Being nominated for an award of this calibre is an incredible achievement, and we’re proud of the hard work, passion, and dedication each of our finalists has shown. We’re cheering you on! 🎉