Having worked extensively in the tourism and aviation sectors, I understand first-hand the challenges and opportunities we face moving forward. As we embark on a new journey together, we are emerging from one of the most challenging times the world has faced. Our industry was one of the first to experience the harsh realities of the global pandemic, and we are one of the last to emerge from this health crisis.
For the past three years, we have been presented with a multitude of challenges, on both a professional and personal level. I know that many of us, myself included, have been deeply impacted by these challenges and that we continue to experience the lingering consequences of the global crisis. As your Chair, I would like to affirm that QTIC is focused on addressing these consequences and on leading our industry through a phase of recovery and revitalisation.
As Tourism’s peak industry body, we are tackling the issues that are impeding the success of our tourism sector. From addressing the current skills and workforce shortage, to driving financial support for operators during disaster events and tackling burgeoning insurance costs, we are working on the urgent challenges faced by our industry.
Importantly, these concerns are being addressed in a way that promotes the long-term future of Queensland tourism. QTIC maintains both a short and long-term agenda for the revitalisation of our visitor economy. With the long-term success of tourism firmly in mind, we are working to secure funding for game-changing infrastructure and future-proofing industry through investment in training and education. We are also focused on improving accessibility for all visitors, protecting our natural assets, and ensuring Queensland’s tourism offerings meet evolving consumer demand. Through advocacy at all levels of government and the delivery of programs aimed at servicing industry needs, QTIC is working hard to deliver tangible results for our members and for all Queensland operators.
These remain challenging times, but the Board and I, along with Brett and the passionate QTIC team, are committed to ensuring Queensland’s tourism industry emerges stronger and more resilient. I am confident that together, and with our shared preparedness to make bold decisions, we will succeed in achieving the best outcomes for our visitor economy.
Moving forward, I want to thank and pay tribute to Shane O’Reilly, whose decade-long commitment to QTIC as Chair was instrumental in facilitating the growth of Queensland’s tourism landscape. During his time as Chair, Shane guided our tourism sector through some of the most challenging circumstances our industry has experienced. His steady leadership and considered approach saw the advancement of Queensland’s First Nations tourism sector and a renewed approach taken to safeguarding our natural wonders.
As we enter this new phase of growth, QTIC will continue to deliver the tools and opportunities that are needed for the more than 60,000 tourism and hospitality businesses that make up Queensland’s visitor economy.
I look forward to supporting Queensland’s tourism industry as QTIC Chair.
Sincerely,
Elsa Dalessio
QTIC Chair
