Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef has launched a new funding programme to attract and secure business events to the region over the next four years, with the initiative projected to deliver a A$54 million (US$34.7 million) direct economic impact.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s (TTNQ) general manager of partnerships and events, Tara Bennett, said the programme would support new business events proposing Tropical North Queensland as a destination, with a minimum of 150 delegates staying in the region for three nights.
“International and national eligible events can apply for funding of A$10,000 or more for events taking place between July 1, 2025 and June 30, 2029.”
In addition to the financial support, the Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef team will continue to provide a suite of complimentary services through the convention bureau.
These include connecting meeting planners with venues and accommodation providers and the broader local events supply network, delegate boosting and marketing support, as well as air and ground support for site inspections.
The funding initiative is supported by key partners Tourism and Events Queensland and Cairns Regional Council, who work alongside Business Events Cairns & Great Barrier Reef to secure major business events for the region.
He stepped down from his previous position as vice president of operations in June 2025 to relocate to the South Island.
Heath began his career with Hyatt and has worked across Asia, the Middle East, and the US.
Ravishankar is currently Air New Zealand’s chief digital officer and has been with the airline for almost five years. In that time, he has led improvements across the airline’s technology systems, loyalty programme, and customer experience.
