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

to be held at The Magazine in Stratford.

The Magazine is where many of our business events delegates are welcomed or farewelled from Cairns and we are keen to show you why the city’s repurposed venues are so popular for national and international clients.

Join the TTNQ Board of Directors and team to celebrate the people, businesses and organisations that make Tropical North Queensland tourism exceptional.

Time: 6.30pm – 9.45pm
Inclusions: Canapés and substantial walk-and-fork dishes, a 3-hour beverage package, entertainment and the 2026 Awards presentations
Dress: Tropical Cocktail

Purchase your tickets now

TTNQ Thanks Our Event Sponsors

Cairns Regional Council

Cairns Regional Council plays a vital role in shaping and supporting the Cairns region, providing essential community services, facilities and infrastructure that contribute to everyday life. Council works across a broad range of areas including local development, environment, tourism, community wellbeing, culture and economic growth. Through its partnerships with local businesses, organisations and the community, Council supports initiatives that strengthen the region and create opportunities for residents, visitors and industry. With a focus on sustainable development and protecting the region’s unique natural and cultural assets, Cairns Regional Council helps build a connected, vibrant and liveable community.

Small World Journeys

Small World Journeys is an educational tour company creating immersive learning experiences that connect students with nature, culture and community. Through tailored tours and hands-on experiences, they encourage young people to explore, learn and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. Sustainability is at the heart of Small World Journeys, focusing on environmental education, recycling, waste reduction and responsible travel. Programs combine education, adventure and meaningful experiences, helping students discover the natural and cultural environment while encouraging them to become more conscious and responsible travellers.

Avis Australia

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

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

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.

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

#ExploreTNQ

Where the water slows, the rainforest whispers, and time seems to drift away with @backcountrybliss 🌿💦

🎥 @girlgonecoconuts 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Weekend plans? Island time 🌴💙

A little getaway to @fitzroyisland is always a good idea 🐢☀️

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Take a walk on the wild side 🌿🌴

Wander the Licuala Walk at Mission Beach, where towering giant fan palms create a tropical rainforest escape. Keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot a cassowary along the way! 

🎥 @skyluxe.fnq 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Follow the palm trees to paradise 🌴✨

📍@visitpalmcove 

📸 @drew_ehlers_photography 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
From Cairns to the Gulf, the Savannah Way takes you through rugged landscapes, outback towns and plenty of adventure!

The season may be wrapping up, but consider this your sign to start planning next year’s road trip 🚙✨ link in bio for itinerary inspo

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Mulligan Falls doing what it does best 💦🌿
Hidden away on Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island), this is a waterfall worth chasing.

Accessed via the Thorsborne Trail (permits required), with boat transfers available for multi-day hikes with @hinchinbrookislandcruises 🛥️🥾

Save this one for next season! 👀

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Meeting the locals of the Great Barrier Reef 🐠💙

📍Onboard @silversoniccruise 

🎥 @chrislennards 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia
@queensland @australia
Work stress? We prescribe a change of scenery 🌴😎 
 
#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @portdouglasdaintree @queensland @australia
Sunset looks good in Port Douglas 🌴💕 
@shaolinportdouglas looking good in pink. 

🎥 @amys.camera.lens 

#exploreTNQ #explorecairnsGBR #queenslandholidayfeeling #seeaustralia @queensland @australia
✨Dive into the Great Barrier Reef with Dreamtime Dive & Snorkel and discover Sea Country through the stories, knowledge and culture of Indigenous guides.

📍@dreamtimecairns 

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