Explore Minjerribah’s Future: Quandamooka Forum 2025 Paves the Way for Sustainable Travel in Australia

Published on October 25, 2025

In October 2025, Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island) will host the highly anticipated Quandamooka Forum, a landmark event aimed at shaping the future of sustainable tourism in this stunning Queensland destination. This gathering promises to be a crucial moment for the region as it embraces both cultural heritage and eco-tourism, setting a sustainable course for the island’s future.

A Hub of Innovation: The Quandamooka Arts and Culture Centre (QUAMPI)

The forum will take place at the newly opened Quandamooka Arts and Culture Centre (QUAMPI) in Gumpi (Dunwich). This modern facility, which showcases the cultural richness of the Quandamooka People, will serve as the perfect backdrop for discussions on tourism innovation. The event will draw influential stakeholders from across the tourism industry, including local businesses, government representatives, and key figures from the environmental and cultural sectors.

Building a Collaborative Framework for Sustainable Tourism

The Quandamooka Forum is a collaborative effort between the Quandamooka Yoolooburrabee Aboriginal Corporation (QYAC), government agencies, and tourism operators. Major players in the tourism sector, such as SeaLink South East Queensland, the Redlands Coast Museum, Arts Queensland, and the University of Queensland, will work together to devise strategies for sustainable tourism that respects both the environment and the cultural heritage of Minjerribah.

With tourism rapidly growing in Queensland, the forum will focus on creating a responsible model that balances economic growth with environmental and cultural preservation. The Quandamooka People, as the traditional custodians of Minjerribah, are committed to ensuring that the island remains a place of natural beauty and cultural significance for future generations.

Key Initiatives: Sustainable Tourism That Respects the Land and Sea

At the heart of the forum’s agenda is the development of a sustainable tourism model that is deeply rooted in Quandamooka culture and values. Some of the key initiatives on the table include:

• Investing in Land and Sea Rangers: Protecting Minjerribah’s environment through dedicated rangers who will care for both the land and sea Country, ensuring long-term sustainability.
• Pursuing World Heritage Listing: A primary goal of the forum is to advance a submission for Minjerribah’s inclusion in the World Heritage list, a move that will recognize the island’s outstanding natural and cultural significance.
• Managing Overtourism: The forum will explore solutions to prevent overtourism, which can negatively impact the local community and environment. Efforts will focus on limiting overcrowding and enhancing the visitor experience in an eco-friendly manner.
• Quandamooka Great Walk: A proposed multi-day trek that will connect key cultural and natural sites across the island. The walk will provide visitors with an immersive experience that showcases the island’s beauty and history.
• The Quandamooka Promise: A pledge for visitors to respect the local culture, environment, and community, ensuring that tourism development remains aligned with the values of the Quandamooka People.

These initiatives represent a comprehensive approach to tourism that balances ecological preservation with cultural engagement, ensuring that Minjerribah remains a top destination for responsible travelers.

Preparing for the Brisbane 2032 Games: A Strategic Opportunity for Sustainable Growth

As the host First Nation for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Quandamooka People are uniquely positioned to lead the charge in shaping a sustainable tourism model. The forum will serve as a platform to engage with businesses, government leaders, and researchers to ensure that Minjerribah benefits from the increased global attention while maintaining its commitment to sustainability.

The Brisbane 2032 Games provide a strategic opportunity for the Quandamooka People to showcase their cultural heritage and contribute to the development of sustainable tourism practices that could be replicated across Queensland and beyond. The forum will explore how tourism in the region can be aligned with the Games’ sustainability goals, creating lasting positive impacts for both the local community and the environment.

Connecting Culture, Community, and Nature: A Vision for the Future

The Quandamooka Forum represents more than just a discussion on tourism—it is a vision for the future of Minjerribah, one that integrates cultural traditions, environmental stewardship, and community wellbeing. Through sustainable tourism, the island aims to protect its delicate ecosystems, celebrate its rich cultural heritage, and offer visitors a chance to connect with the land and people in a meaningful way.

Incorporating the perspectives of the Quandamooka People, as well as stakeholders from various sectors, ensures that the forum’s outcomes reflect a balanced and inclusive approach to tourism. The forum will not only focus on immediate challenges but also look toward long-term solutions that will secure Minjerribah’s place as a global leader in sustainable travel.

Conclusion: Minjerribah’s Sustainable Tourism Future

The Quandamooka Forum 2025 marks a pivotal moment for Minjerribah, as the island prepares to embrace a new era of tourism that prioritizes sustainability, cultural respect, and environmental preservation. With key initiatives like the Quandamooka Great Walk and the Quandamooka Promise, the forum aims to set the stage for a tourism model that serves as a model for other regions. As the island positions itself for the upcoming Brisbane 2032 Games, it will undoubtedly become a beacon of sustainable tourism in Queensland and beyond.