Business Breakfast 26 May: QLD in Motion: Aviation, Tourism & the Road to 2032
Description
Queensland in Motion: Aviation, Tourism and the Road to 2032
Queensland is on the move.
Across aviation and tourism, the state is building strong momentum, with growing demand, expanding connectivity and a renewed global appetite for travel. From Brisbane to regional hubs across Queensland, both sectors continue to play a critical role in driving economic growth, investment and jobs.
But the conversation is shifting.
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, the next decade presents a defining opportunity, not just to grow, but to position Queensland on the global stage. Central to this is the role of Brisbane as the state’s primary gateway, and the continued evolution of Brand Brisbane as a confident, world-class destination.
Aviation will be key, enabling access, unlocking new markets and supporting the growth of the Brisbane Airport precinct as a major economic engine. At the same time, the tourism sector must continue to navigate challenges around workforce, capacity and competition, while delivering exceptional visitor experiences across the state.
So where are we now, and what comes next?
Join BNE Enterprise as we bring together industry and government leaders to reflect on the performance of aviation and tourism in 2026, and explore the opportunities and challenges that will shape the road to 2032.
Lineup
The Hon. Andrew Powell, Minister for Environment & Tourism
The Honourable Andrew Powell is the Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation, a proud father of five, and the local Member for Glass House, an electorate that covers the hinterland of the Sunshine Coast and Moreton Bay. Mr Powell completed secondary school at Redcliffe and was awarded degrees in Science and Arts at the University of Queensland. He worked with the Defence Department in Canberra, and after working overseas returned to Queensland where he worked for the Department of Premier and Cabinet and the Department of Child Safety. He was elected as the Member for Glass House in 2009 and was appointed Minister for the Environment from 2012 to 2015. He’s served in a range of positions since including as Manager of Opposition Business from 2022–2024. Andrew was appointed Minister in November 2024. Mr Powell is passionate about nature-based tourism, and encouraging Queenslanders to see our great State so they become ambassadors for all we have to offer. Having studied science, he knows the invaluable contribution of the scientific community to our everyday lives, and the incredible potential for innovation to transform the way we work, live and play. As Tourism Minister he is committed to promoting all Queensland regions but says everyone should check out his electorate of Glass House, multiple times, as it’s unquestionably one of the State’s best destinations.
Natassia Wheeler, CEO Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC)
Appointed in late 2024, Tash Wheeler brings 20 years’ experience in the industry, a wealth of expertise and a track record of strong leadership in tourism and events, particularly within Queensland. Most recently, she served as CEO of Moreton Bay Region Industry & Tourism, where Ms Wheeler led strategic initiatives to drive regional growth, strengthen stakeholder relationships, and position Moreton Bay as Australia’s newest destination. Her experience in media engagement and stakeholder collaboration will be invaluable as she leads QTIC in advancing Queensland’s tourism industry. Previously, Ms Wheeler also served as CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, where she drove substantial growth in visitor expenditure and secured high returns on marketing investments. Her experience extends to advocacy, governance, and long-term partnership building, demonstrating her commitment to uniting and strengthening the tourism industry as a whole and making her a highly respected figure statewide. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for QTIC as the state’s peak body looks forward to an exciting new chapter of growth and development with an eye on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Anthony Cicuttini, Head of Aviation Business Development, Brisbane Airport Corporation
Anthony Cicuttini is a prominent figure in the aviation industry, currently serving as the SVP and Head of Aviation Business Development at Brisbane Airport Corporation. With a rich background in aviation management, Anthony has been instrumental in expanding Brisbane Airport's operations and enhancing flight frequency. His expertise includes areas such as airports, airlines, aviation, airport management, and commercial aviation. Anthony's work has been pivotal in attracting airline capacity to Brisbane, contributing to the growth and connectivity of Queensland's economy.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
