Local experiences make Best of Queensland list

Published 3:00pm 3 August 2022

More than 30 tourism operators and attractions from across the Moreton Bay Region have made the Best of Queensland Experiences list.

The Best of Queensland Experiences Program assesses tourism products against independent criteria that incorporates online customer reviews, responds to consumer expectations and reflects industry best practice.

Operators with a listing on the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) are automatically assessed in the program.

Thirty-one businesses in the Moreton Bay Region made this year’s list including tour operators, restaurants, accommodation providers and attractions.

Mayor Peter Flannery says Moreton Bay Regional Council is backing these outstanding local businesses to succeed.

|“In a competitive marketplace it’s not enough to simply meet people’s expectations, we’ve got to strive to exceed them, and our amazing local operators are already doing an incredible job of that,” Mayor Flannery says.|

“So, it’s our job to put Moreton Bay on the map and make this a destination of choice in South East Queensland, to ensure that by the time the Olympics arrive we are front-of-mind for national and international visitors.

“So, we’ve just started a new arts activation strategy, to not only beautify the region with murals and sculptures but also bring our streets alive with performance art. We will also be launching a new tourism strategy this year, so stay tuned for details on that.”

Local experiences make Best of Queensland list

Spread the word

“The best weapon we have in our arsenal is you, locals who love living in Moreton Bay. That’s because word of mouth has the strongest impact on travel decisions and 92 per cent of people trust recommendations over any other form of advertising,” Mayor Flannery says.

“So, if there’s something you’ve been waiting to cross off your Moreton Bay bucket list, make sure you get out there and do it - then tell all your friends and family about it.

“We know this the best place in the world to live and we need to stop being humble about it, now is the time to boast about Moreton Bay.

“Also, if you’ve got any great ideas about what we can be doing to make Moreton Bay a more exciting destination make sure you let us know. No suggestion is too crazy ahead of the 2032 Games.”

Celebrating the best of the best

Moreton Bay Industry and Tourism (MBRIT) CEO and Founder Shane Newcombe congratulated the 31 operators from the region who have made the Best of Queensland Experience list and exemplify the region’s best visitor experiences and products on offer.

“These businesses are consistently delivering exceptional experiences to visitors and guests – ‘wowing’ them before their arrival with incredible images and communication; during their visit by providing warm, inclusive and exceptional service; and after their visit, continuing to communicate in an engaged and proactive manner by seeking the guest’s feedback,” Mr Newcombe says.

“In being awarded Best of Queensland Experience status, operators will gain preferential exposure on destination platforms including VisitMoretonBayRegion.com.au; VisitBrisbane.com.au, Queensland.com and others.

“We know that 93 per cent of global travellers say their booking decisions are impacted by online reviews, with 92 per cent of consumers saying they trust recommendations over all other forms of advertising.

|“This is why it’s so important for tourism businesses to have a visible and active digital presence. Visitors are looking at reviews and how these businesses engage with both positive and negative feedback, and their engagement impacts a consumer’s purchase decision and visit.”|

Mr Newcombe says MBRIT is committed to continuing to increase local operators’ capability and visibility, and is calling for expressions of interest from those who wish to take part in an eight-week mentoring program designed to accelerate their attainment of Best of Queensland Experience status.

“The Moreton Bay Region is a hidden gem, and we know there are countless other operators delivering exceptional experiences however are not recognised on this list,” he says.

“MBRIT is committed to continuing to work with these operators to ensure they gain the acknowledgment and recognition they deserve.”