2026 TNQ Tourism Industry Excellence Awards

The Tropical North Queensland tourism industry will recognise its outstanding people, businesses and experiences at the
2026 TNQ Tourism Industry Excellence Awards on Friday, 23 October 2026.

Join the TTNQ Board of Directors and team as we celebrate the achievements, innovation and excellence that continue to strengthen Tropical North Queensland’s tourism industry.

Nominations are now open, and we encourage tourism operators, businesses and individuals from across the region to nominate those making an outstanding contribution to the industry. Open to both TTNQ members and non-members, the awards provide an opportunity to showcase your achievements or recognise a deserving colleague, team, business or experience. Submit a nomination in one of the following award categories:

Awards Nominations are open from 29 July 2026 and will close 31 August, 11.59pm

Tickets will be on sale from 28 September 2026.

Venue yet to be revealed for the Tropical Cocktail style event from 6.30pm – 10.30pm.

Sponsorships for the Awards are available, please contact Tracey Kingston-Bull

TTNQ Thanks Our Event Sponsors

Cairns Regional CouncilOutstanding Commitment to the Industry Award Sponsor
Cairns Regional Council provides community services and facilities, is responsible for making and enforcing local laws, and is involved in the social, economic, and cultural development of our community, improving local living environments.

Avis Australia – Customer Service Excellence Award Sponsor
Avis Australia has a long history of innovation in the car rental industry and is one of the world’s top brands for customer loyalty. Avis has three car & truck rental locations in our region and continues to provide exceptional service to corporate as well as leisure renters.

Cairns Airport – Sustainable Tourism Excellence Award Sponsor
Cairns Airport is one of Australia’s leading regional airports, providing air links to a variety of regional, domestic, and international destinations. Described as ‘descending into paradise’, Cairns Airport is the gateway to the World Heritage Great Barrier Reef and Tropical Rainforests of North Queensland.

Ports North – Young Achiever Excellence Award Sponsor
Ports North plays a crucial role in fostering economic development within the region, significantly contributing to the state’s tourism and export capabilities. Cairns Seaport serves as a multi-purpose facility accommodating a variety of operations and offers extensive marina and tourism facilities. The Port is one of Australia’s busiest cruising destinations with both major international cruise ships and a number of domestic cruise vessels operating out of Cairns.

Lotsa Printing
Lotsa Print & Signage is a premier printing and graphic‑design company that blends high‑quality production with creative expertise. With facilities in Cairns and Townsville, they specialise in everything from business cards and booklets to marquees, media walls and vehicle signage.

#ExploreTNQ

Honestly, this is the kind of movie worth leaving the couch for 🌴✨

Horse riding  through the oldest tropical rainforest and onto the beach overlooking the Great Barrier Reef.

🎥 @capetribhorserides 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @portdouglasdaintree @queensland @australia
Happy International Dog Day 🐶

Check out this peaceful rainforest trail, with beautiful creek crossings and sweeping views over Cairns. Ivan Evans Walk is the perfect little escape from the city. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, so you can bring your four-legged adventure buddy along 🐾

📍 Ivan Evans Walk

⚠️ remember to follow the signs and stay on the track

link in bio for more dog friendly adventures 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
A little reminder that the ocean is full of magic 🐋✨

Cairns Whale Watching with @fitzroyislandadventures is a must do this whale season. Tours are running until 6 September, so there’s still time to get out on the water and experience it for yourself!

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@reef_unlimited @queensland @australia
Sunrise at Palm Cove is worth getting up early for 🧡🌴

📸 @jake.bolton.photo 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
POV: you found your new favourite spot in Cairns 🔥

Go for the signature cocktails, stay for the vibes 🍸 KOI Bar brings an intimate Japanese-inspired experience, rare whisky pours & a curated menu of seriously good food.

P.S. Don't forget to check out KOI Restaurant next door for modern Asian flavours & share plates.

📍 @koicairns 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Start your Mareeba day with lunch at @skyburyfarms, then spend the afternoon exploring Granite Gorge Nature Park, where you can hand-feed wallabies. 

In the evening, head to @mareebadrivein_in for a movie under the stars.

Then settle in at Mareeba Bush Stays and spend the night in one of their new luxury glamping tents overlooking the peaceful dam.

A relaxed Mareeba escape with plenty to see, do and experience along the way ✨

🎥 @visitmareebashire 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
A little Great Barrier Reef magic ✨🧡

There’s nothing quite like finding Nemo on the reef.

📸 @reefmagiccairns 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
A private paradise where time slows and luxury comes naturally ✨ Escape to Bedarra Island, where secluded beaches, turquoise waters, and effortless relaxation awaits 🏝️

📸 @bedarraisland 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @cassowarycoastaustralia @queensland @australia