The wide demand for Indigenous-led Great Barrier Reef tourism can be developed into successful businesses that benefit their communities with the right support, according to a report from the Tropical Water Quality Hub. Research looking at the status of Indigenous coral reef tourism along the Great Barrier Reef, led by Dr Henrietta Marie at Central Queensland University, states that Indigenous-owned Reef tourism operations are well-placed with a unique product and image that can be cultivated. The Final Report contains several recommendations including the establishment of a Queensland Indigenous tourism body and accreditation system, the building of strong partnerships between Indigenous tourism organisations and improving Indigenous heritage visibility to boost international demand. It also supports the recommendations made in the Traditional Owners of The GBR: The Next Generation of Reef 2050 Actions report.
Photo: Wayne Spencer