Operators and organisers from across government and the tourism and events sector have attended a Redland City Council-led industry forum to explore the theme of ‘Future Redlands Coast’.
Redland City Acting Mayor Julie Talty, who addressed the 2026 Redlands Coast Tourism and Events Forum, said Council was dedicated to helping grow the Redlands Coast visitor economy.
“Fostering collaboration and sharing insights are important processes in sustaining and growing this sector which is a significant economic driver for Redlands Coast,” Cr Talty said.
“Tourism plays an important role in supporting local jobs, businesses and economic growth in our city, and will continue to do so into the future.
“There are nearly 400 businesses operating in the sector in our city, directly employing more than 2900 people.”
Cr Talty said the sector’s output to the local economy in 2025 was approximately $454 million. Based on bank transaction data, visitor spend in the month of June 2026 was estimated at $35.8 million, a rise of 8.2 per cent compared to last year.
“The success of the sector comes down to two basic factors – our people and our places,” she said.
“The skill, dedication and drive shown by the people who work in the sector are truly remarkable – and what a remarkable place in which to work, live and play!
“Redlands Coast is Brisbane’s closest coastal and island escape where you can experience an abundance of iconic wildlife in their natural environment, living First Nations culture and rich nature experiences.
“The theme for the forum – Future Redlands Coast – inspired some in-depth discussion around big ideas, exciting developments and bold opportunities that could shape the future of tourism and events across the region.”
Redlands Coast Tourism and Events Forum 2026, held at Mount Cotton’s Sirromet Winery, delivered a full program of informative talks, interactive panels and practical sessions, along with focused opportunities for networking.
This year’s keynote speaker was Steve Wiggers, Managing Director, SCALA , who addressed the topic, ‘AI in Tourism: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and What to do Next’.
Other topics covered at the forum included:
- Brisbane 2032 Conversation: Unlocking Opportunity, Building Legacy
- Turning Trends into Opportunity: Exploring Tourism Trends and the Impact of Major and Local Events
- Attention Shift: Marketing Trends 2026
- Elevating the Redlands Coast Experience
To find out more about what makes Redlands Coast such a tourism and events standout, go to redlandscoast.com.au, or click here: Welcome to Redlands Coast
Council will continue to work with our community, Redlands Coast’s businesses, and tourism operators to support economic development and jobs growth, as we build toward the opportunities of the 2032 Olympics and beyond.
Cr Talty will continue in the role of Acting Mayor until the end of October.
Speaking on behalf of Council and Councillors, Cr Talty said arrangements were in place across the organisation to ensure stability and continuity of service as Mayor Jos Mitchell extends her current leave period.
