Tours & Workshops

Please note, delegates need to pre-register for these tours and workshops during the registration process as there are limited places in each.

Time

Session

Gwoonwardu Mia Tour with an Elder

Location: Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre

We welcome delegates to immerse themselves in Yinggarda culture led by a local Elder, this one-hour cultural experience offers the opportunity to learn about local culture, native plants and traditional knowledge connected to Country. Delegates will meet at Gwoonwardu Mia for a 10.00am start, with the tour running for approximately one hour. This experience is free for conference delegates and delivered in partnership with Gwoonwardu Mia and the Shire of Carnarvon.

10.00am – 2.00pm

Industry Showcase Tour

Departs from Carnarvon Civic Centre

Discover the future of Carnarvon on this Industry Showcase Tour, designed for delegates interested in the region’s major project developments, growing industries and emerging investment opportunities. This tour will provide insights into the initiatives shaping Carnarvon’s economic future, highlighting key projects, local innovation and the industries driving growth across the region. Delegates will have the opportunity to learn more about the opportunities and partnerships that are positioning Carnarvon as an exciting place to live, work and invest.

AI for Social Media Marketing Workshop

Location: Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre

Marketing your business on social media is vital, but the time it takes often means it gets neglected. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT, Copilot and Claude can help you work smarter, and this workshop will show you the best ways to incorporate this technology while maintaining your authentic voice.

Topics will include:

• understanding what generative AI and large language models can and can't do, including risks such as hallucination
• comparing the main AI tools available (ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, Gemini) and their strengths
• creating a business marketing profile to get better, more relevant results from AI
• using AI for strategy, planning and generating content ideas
• improving your drafts and creating posts and captions with AI assistance
• understanding the limitations and ethical considerations of AI-generated images and video
• resources for staying up to date as the technology evolves

Presented by Amanda Kendle

10.30am – 12.00pm

Carnarvon Heritage & Art Walking Tour

Departs Carnarvon Civic Centre

Explore Carnarvon’s stories through both heritage and creativity on this combined Heritage & Art Walking Tour. Guided by a local host, delegates will walk through the town’s historic precinct while discovering significant heritage buildings alongside vibrant public artworks and murals that reflect the region’s culture and community spirit. This relaxed tour offers insight into Carnarvon’s past while showcasing how art and placemaking are helping shape the town’s future.

12.00pm – 2.00pm

Bananas About Carnarvon

Departs Carnarvon Civic Centre

If there is one thing Carnarvon is known for, it’s our incredible fresh produce, especially our sweet, small bananas. Join us for Bananas About Carnarvon, a fun and flavour-filled experience celebrating one of the region’s most iconic products. This session will feature a cooking demonstration and masterclass showcasing the versatility of Carnarvon bananas, along with tastings including banana vodka and freeze-dried bananas for a sweet afternoon treat. We invite hospitality and tourism partners to join this session to explore how Carnarvon’s produce and experiences could become part of your tourism offering, while opening conversations about strengthening partnerships and creating new opportunities together.

Future-Proof Your Business: What Every Tourism Operator Needs to Know in 2026

Location: Gwoonwardu Mia Cultural Centre

Running a tourism business means wearing many hats - and the financial one doesn't always get the attention it deserves. This interactive workshop, facilitated by RSM, gives you dedicated time to step back from the day-to-day and take a closer look at the financial foundations of your business.

With significant changes on the horizon - including Payday Super obligations from July 2026 - now is the time to ensure your systems, structures and strategies are ready. RSM's advisors will guide you through what's changing and what it means for your business, alongside practical strategies for cash flow management, tax planning, and choosing the right business structure for where you're headed.

This is also a chance to learn from the room. Hear how other operators are navigating the same challenges, ask the questions you don't always get to ask, and leave with a clearer picture of where the opportunities lie.

Suitable for owner-operators, business managers and finance decision-makers across all tourism sectors.

Presented by Simon Brown & Kara Golding, RSM

Visitor Centres WA Sessions

Venue: Woolshed, Carnarvon Civic Centre

Please note, these sessions are exclusive to delegates representing Visitor Centres.

Time

Session

10.30am

VCWA Sessions Commence

MC Mel Virgo

Roundtable Discussion

A world cafe style discussion bringing together visitor centre delegates from across the state to share insights on challenges, visitor trends, and what's working well. Delegates will rotate through facilitated stations, with key themes captured and shared with the room.

12.15pm

Lunch

1.00pm

Content That Connects: Storytelling for Visitor Centres

Amanda Kendle

Every region has stories worth telling, but finding the time to tell them well is a challenge for busy visitor centre teams. This session explores how to create social media content that captures the authentic character of your place and resonates with travellers researching their next trip. From using visitor stories and user-generated content to balancing promotion with genuine engagement, you'll leave with practical tips for creating compelling content even with limited time and resources.

2.00pm

Carnarvon Visitor Centre: A Closer Look

Stephanie Leca, Shire of Carnarvon

The Shire of Carnarvon shares insights into their visitor servicing model, with delegates free to explore the Visitor Centre at the conclusion of the session.

2.30pm

Visitor Centre Sessions Conclude

Networking Function

Venue: Quobba Station

Included for all delegates.

Time

Session

5.00pm – 7.30pm

(coaches departing Carnarvon from 4.00pm)

Join us for an unforgettable evening presented by the Gascoyne Development Commission at the iconic Quobba Station, just 45 minutes north of Carnarvon.​ Set against the stunning backdrop of the Gascoyne coastline where the desert meets the sea, this event will showcase the region’s rich culture, world-class produce, and breathtaking landscapes. ​

As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, immerse yourself in the Gascoyne’s unique offerings. ​ Savor exquisite canapés crafted by renowned chefs, featuring fresh seafood, premium meats, locally grown vegetables, and Indigenous bush foods. ​ Pair these culinary delights with regional beverages for a true taste of the Gascoyne. ​

Enjoy captivating Aboriginal cultural performances, including dance and music, and connect with the people and stories that define this remarkable region. ​ As twilight falls, marvel at the Gascoyne’s world-class night skies through telescopes provided by local astrotourism operators. ​

This event is the perfect opportunity to network with industry leaders, government representatives, and tourism operators while experiencing the authentic charm of the Gascoyne. ​ Don’t miss this chance to celebrate Western Australia’s vibrant tourism industry and discover the beauty and abundance of the Gascoyne region. ​

Venue: Carnarvon Civic Centre

Included for all delegates.

Time

Session

8.00am

Registrations commence

Coffee and tea available

Sessions commence

MC Carmen Braidwood

8.35am

Welcome to Country

Kath Ryan

8.45am

Tourism Minister’s Address

Hon Reece Whitby MLA, Minister for Police; Road Safety; Tourism; Great Southern

9.00am

Host Town Address - Shire of Carnarvon

Amanda Dexter, Shire of Carnarvon

As the proud host town of the 2026 WA Tourism Conference, the Shire of Carnarvon will present a special address celebrating the region, its people, and the unique experiences that make Carnarvon and the Gascoyne such a remarkable destination. This session will offer insight into the region’s rich heritage, vibrant community, and exciting future within Western Australia’s tourism landscape.

9.20am

Regional Trends Shaping the Visitor Experience

Facilitated by Carol McCracken, Caravan & Camping WA

From marine encounters and outback station stays to astrotourism, drive tourism, and agritourism — regional WA is seeing a shift in what visitors are seeking and how they experience a destination. This panel brings together operators working across some of tourism's fastest-growing segments to explore what's driving demand, how regional operators are innovating, and where the next opportunities lie. Whether you operate on the coast, in the outback, or anywhere in between, this session offers practical insights you can apply to your own region and business.

9.50am

Morning Tea

10.20am

Tourism Australia Update

Rob Dougan, Tourism Australia

An overview of Tourism Australia's current marketing activity, campaign priorities, and insights on visitor trends and source markets relevant to Western Australian operators.

10.50am

Tourism Western Australia Update

Anneke Brown, Tourism WA

An overview of Tourism WA's current priorities, marketing activity, and initiatives supporting the growth of the visitor economy across the state.

11.15am

Importance of Regional Air Access

Kym Francesconi, Nexus Airlines
Reliable air access is the backbone of regional tourism. This session explores why connectivity matters for destinations beyond the drive market, the challenges facing regional aviation, and what it takes to make routes viable. For operators and destinations looking to attract visitors from further afield, understanding the airline perspective is essential.

11.25am

Cleared for Takeoff: The Future of Regional Air Access

Facilitated by Evan Hall, Tourism Council WA

Panellists:

• Amanda Dexter, Shire of Carnarvon
• Kym Francesconi, Nexus Airlines
• Kate Holsgrove, Perth Airport

Air access is one of the biggest factors shaping regional tourism growth — and one of the biggest challenges. This panel brings together airlines, airport operators, and tourism stakeholders for an honest conversation about the barriers to growing and retaining regional air routes, and what it will take to overcome them. From route viability and seasonal demand to infrastructure and collaboration, hear how industry and government can work together to improve connectivity and unlock the potential of regional Western Australia. A must-attend for anyone whose business depends on getting visitors to and from the regions.

12.00pm

Lunch

Sponsored by Tourism WA

12.20pm

Lunch & Learn
Tax Time Ready: Top Tips for Tourism Businesses

Simon Brown & Kara Golding, RSM
With tax time on the horizon, now is the perfect time to get your financial house in order. In this practical session, RSM's tourism industry specialists share their top tips to help tourism businesses prepare with confidence - from record-keeping essentials and common deductions to cash flow considerations and what to have ready before you meet with your accountant. Walk away with actionable steps you can implement straight away.

This session takes place in the Woolshed.

RSM Business Clinics

Book a complimentary 30-minute one-on-one session with an RSM advisor to discuss any aspect of your business. Whether you have questions about tax, structure, cash flow, succession planning, or just want a sounding board for what's next, this is your opportunity for tailored advice in a confidential setting. Sessions are available on Tuesday 26 May only, with just 13 spots available. Visit the RSM booth to secure your appointment.

1.00pm

Keynote Presentation: AI – The Future is NOW

Steve Sammartino

Futurist and business strategist Steve Sammartino explores how artificial intelligence is reshaping the tourism landscape – not in some distant future, but right now. This keynote cuts through the hype to show what AI means for operators today and how to harness it before you're left behind.

2.05pm

Stop Scrolling, Start Booking: Social Media That Converts

Meg Coffey, Coffey & Tea

Social media is crowded, algorithms are constantly shifting, and most tourism operators don't have time to keep up. This session cuts through the noise with practical, immediately actionable strategies for turning your social media presence into actual bookings. Learn what the platforms are rewarding right now, where to focus your limited time, and how to create content that works – even on a tight budget.

2.50pm

Afternoon tea

3.20pm

Afternoon tea concludes

5.30pm

Pre-dinner drinks commence at secret location

6.15pm

Conference dinner commences

Hosted by Noel Brunning from 7NEWS, dinner proceedings involve the presentation of the 7NEWS Top Tourism Town Awards and 2026 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards for Individual Excellence.

Enjoy dinner entertainment from Riley Pearce alongside a menu curated by guest chef Don Hancey, featuring local and Western Australian produce.

Following the conclusion of the dinner, coaches will be available to transfer delegates back to selected accommodation.

With thanks to product sponsors Clairault Streicker, Pardoo Wagyu, Riverbank Winery, Sandalford Wines, Sweeter Banana and Whalebone Brewing

9.45pm

Conference dinner formalities conclude

Networking to follow

Venue: Carnarvon Civic Centre

Included for all delegates.

Time

Session

8.30am

Registrations open

Sessions commence

MC Carmen Braidwood

9.05am

Practical Steps to Building Partnerships between Aboriginal and Non-Aboriginal Tourism Businesses

Robert Taylor, WAITOC
Darren ‘Capes’ Capewell, Wula Gura Nyinda Eco Cultural Adventures

Rennee Turner, Wooramulla Cultural Tours & Rachael Steadman, Wooramel River Retreat

Many tourism operators want to incorporate Aboriginal culture into their guest experience but don't know where to start. How do you identify the right people to talk to? What does a respectful approach look like? How do you structure a partnership that works for everyone?

This practical session moves beyond the "why" to focus on the "how" – outlining key steps for building genuine partnerships with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal tourism businesses. Two WA case studies bring these principles to life, with Aboriginal and non-Aboriginal partners sharing their experiences: the challenges they faced, what they learned, and the outcomes they've achieved together.

10.05am

Setting the Scene: Tourism's Role as Custodians of Place

Ryan Mossny, FACET

Tourism operators hold a unique position as interpreters of Western Australia's most significant places. This short session explores the responsibility that comes with presenting sensitive environments and cultural heritage to visitors – and the practical pathways available to operators looking to deepen their commitment, from sustainable tourism accreditation to emissions reduction and cultural inclusion programs.

10.15am

Protect, Preserve, Present: Tourism’s Role in Interpreting World Heritage Values at Shark Bay
Juliane Bush, Shark Bay World Heritage Advisory Committee
Shark Bay is one of only a handful of places on Earth recognised for all four natural criteria of Outstanding Universal Value under the World Heritage Convention. Its seagrass meadows, stromatolites, marine life, and deep cultural connections make it a living laboratory of evolution and resilience.

This session offers a local perspective on what it means to manage and present a World Heritage property on the frontline of environmental change – and the unique role tourism operators play as interpreters of these values. By the stories they tell and the experiences they shape, operators help visitors connect with what makes places like Shark Bay extraordinary while inspiring stewardship for generations to come.

10.30am

Morning tea

11.00am

Storytelling That Sticks: Building Strong Tourism Brands Together
Alice Jeffcott, Market Creations

Tourism operators don’t compete in isolation - they succeed when their destination succeeds. In an increasingly crowded tourism market, individual businesses stand out most effectively when they are part of a clear, compelling and collaborative destination story.

This session explores how tourism operators can use shared storytelling, cross‑promotion and collaboration to strengthen their destination’s appeal, attract the right visitors and create greater impact. Drawing on real-world WA examples, the presentation will explore how operators can align their own marketing with destination brands, work alongside neighbouring businesses and government leverage regional identity to grow visitation - without needing large budgets or complex digital systems.

11.30am

Closing Keynote

Josh Richards
Physicist, Commando, Explosives Engineer, Comedian, Astronaut Candidate, Exploration Cave Diver – one thing Josh Richards can never be accused of is being boring.

After a decade of picking up booby traps with the Australian Army, slogging through mud with British

Commandos, being science adviser to the richest artist in the world, and performing comedy wearing a giant koala suit to confused audiences around the world, Josh decided to take on the final frontier by applying for a one-way mission to Mars. Selected from over 200,000 initial applicants to the Mars One project in 2012, Josh was shortlisted as one of 100 astronaut candidates launching to the red planet one-way in 2031. For the next decade, Josh travelled the world - training, preparing, speaking, and writing books with the single goal of helping our species evolve in order to establish a permanent Human presence on Mars.

12.30pm

Lunch

Sponsored by Nexus Airlines

1.30pm

Carnarvon Uncovered Tour

Go beyond the brochure and experience Carnarvon Uncovered, a special showcase designed for tourism delegates to discover what makes Carnarvon truly unique. This guided bus tour will highlight some of the region’s key attractions, including Gwoonwardu Mia Aboriginal Heritage and Cultural Centre, the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum, and a showcase of the region’s incredible local produce. The tour will conclude at the Carnarvon Heritage Precinct for the conference Closing Ceremony, featuring a special event, Jetty to the Stars, with the Perth Symphony Orchestra. The bus tour will depart following the Wednesday half-day conference session at 1.30pm and will conclude at 8.00pm. Delegates travelling on the charter flight will depart earlier at 4.30pm for their return flight. Explore the inside story of Carnarvon in a mystery tour taking you to experience the town’s best kept secrets and tourism icons.

3.00pm

Jetty to the Stars Conference Closing Party

Venue: One Mile Jetty Precinct

Join fellow delegates at a closing party featuring Perth Symphony Orchestra.

8.00pm

Closing party concludes for remaining guests