Cassowary Coast to capture potential as eco-tourism destination

The Cassowary Coast is on the journey to become a global eco-destination as council tees up formal accreditation that could draw green-minded travellers from around the globe.

The Cassowary Coast has its eyes on the eco-minded traveller as it looks to market the region as a sustainable tourism hotspot.

The region is on the journey to become an accredited ECO Destination through the Eco-tourism Australia’s globally recognised program, with a pledge to achieve certification by the end of 2024.

Achieving ECO Destination certification will recognise the Cassowary Coast as a world-class destination for sustainable, nature-based tourism and showcase the destination’s commitment to quality sustainable practices.

It will also give conscious travellers a clear snapshot of the sustainable, eco-friendly experiences, attractions and accommodation that the Cassowary coast offers.

Councillor Renee McLeod, who holds the Tourism and Economic Development portfolio, said council would like the Cassowary Coast region achieve certification by the end of 2024.

“In order to prepare for a changing climate and transitioning economy, like other regional Queensland towns we need to future-proof our tourism industry,” Ms McLeod said.

Cassowary Coast Council Division 6 counsellor Renee McLeod. Image: Cassowary Coast Council.

“Through investing in sustainable tourism, we have an opportunity to be a regional leader, protect our natural assets and appeal to the increasing number of travellers seeking sustainable travel experiences.

“Our environment is like no other, and implementing practices across destination management, nature and scenery, environment and climate, culture and tradition, business and hospitality, will be essential to expanding our potential as a sustainable destination, new business ventures and employment opportunities in our region.

“The certification process will rely on successful partnership and collaboration with tourism industry and operators to achieve Eco Destination Certification by 2024.”

Aerial shot of Mission Beach. Image: supplied

Cassowary Coast Tourism, executive officer Patrick Bluett said the region was already heading in the right direction with several local operators already eco-certified.

“Council will be working closely with our team at Cassowary Coast Tourism to speak with local tourism operators and other businesses connected to the visitor-economy on how we can all contribute,” Mr Bluett said.

“It will be a collaborative effort to work with our industry to see operators achieve their own certification which recognises a business’s commitment to sustainable practices and responsible tourism.”

The Cassowary Coast region was a recipient of a Eco-certified Tourism Destination program grant in 2022, introduced by the Queensland Government, to help both applicant destinations and new destinations start or complete a globally recognised certification process.

Originally published as Cassowary Coast to capture potential as eco-tourism destination