We welcome back the return of the North Coast Tourism Symposium and North Coast Tourism Awards 2023!

The North Coast Tourism Symposium 2023 will provide a full day conference program and is a not-to-be-missed professional development opportunity for tourism operators and all involved in the region's visitor economy. Delegates from across the North Coast will be in attendance providing a great networking opportunity for businesses.

The day will include an inspiring and thought-provoking opening keynote presentation from Eliane Miles. Eliane is a social researcher, strategist, and trends analyst. She is the founder of The Curious Co (thecurious.co), an insights and strategy consultancy that delivers practical strategic direction to clients across a wide range of industries.

As well as Eliane, a host of compelling speakers, an interactive format, and updates on Destination North Coast's activities along with those of Destination NSW and Tourism Australia will be provided.

The Symposium will start at 8.45am sharp and close at 4.15 pm on Thursday 27 July, 2023 and will be held at Peppers Salt Resort and Spa, Kingscliff.

The preliminary program is now available here.

In the evening after the symposium, Destination North Coast, in partnership with Business NSW are pleased to announce the return of the North Coast Tourism Awards. The 2023 North Coast Tourism Awards recognises growth, entrepreneurship and celebrates tourism businesses success across the North Coast Destination Network region. The gala event will take place at Plantation House.

The Awards Gala Dinner commences at 6.00pm until late (bus transfers will be available from accommodation partners…keep an eye out for updates).

Northern Rivers Rail Trail Pre-Conference Activity
Experience the region's newest attraction, the Northern Rivers Rail Trail, with a special ride for Symposium delegates on Wednesday 26 July 2023!

We'll meet at Murwillumbah Railway Station at 1pm and set off at your own pace, taking in the scenery, bridges, tunnels and points of interest along the 24km journey.

Join Destination North Coast and destination hosts Tweed Tourism Company for a gathering at Hosanna Farmstay (halfway point approx. 9km from Murwillumbah Station) and a refreshing drink and some afternoon music. Transfers will be coordinated to take riders back to their cars from Hosanna between 4:30 - 5:30pm (TBC).

The cost to participate in this pre-conference activity is just $35/person (a highly subsidised rate) which includes bike/helmet hire, transfers back to Murwillumbah Station and celebratory drink at the end of the ride!

Wellness Pre-Conference Activity
Destination North Coast and the Tweed Tourism Co. are offering special wellness activities prior to Symposium on the morning of Thursday 27 July. The sessions will run concurrently from 6.30am to 7.30am. Select one when buying your Tourism Symposium ticket to get your day off to a great start.

Qi Gong
Qi gong is an ancient energy health practice that has both an invigorating and rejuvenating effect on body, mind and spirit. It has been part of Traditional Chinese Medicine for centuries and can be practiced by people of all ages and conditions. Enjoy this peaceful practice and build strength and health in this easy-to-follow class appropriate for all levels of ability and experience. Your guide is Emma Krause, the founder of The Health Coach Approach business, a wellness education and experience provider promoting calmness in mind, happiness in heart and freedom in body through online and in-person workshops, programs and retreats.

Beach Boot Camp
Hit the sand and be tested at a training session run by The Gym at Salt with fresh air and an ocean view to boost your morning energy. Led by former professional AFL player and coach Dean Solomon, this Beach Games workout is part high intensity, part game focused, delivering a solid workout with elements of fun and competition mixed throughout. Expect sprints, squats and planks plus some low impact team sports on the sand. Be sure to save some stores in reserve for a final run into the waves (bring your togs!). There's nothing like waking up to wellness with a heart-pumping session followed by a splash in the sea.

Mindful Beach Walk
Reconnect to yourself, others and nature and recharge your battery on this mindful beach walk. Be guided through grounding exercises and learn the science behind nature to enhance your everyday wellness. This special mindfulness session is appropriate for all levels of experience and will be led by Tim Jack Adams, wellness thought leader and founder of GreenX7, a leading edge wellness framework for groups and teams.

Places are limited so get in early.