REDLANDS Coast tourism leaders are looking towards Brisbane 2032 and beyond after new figures revealed visitors poured an estimated $35.8 million into the local economy in June.
The visitor spending figure, based on bank transaction data, represented an 8.2 per cent increase on the same month last year.
Almost 400 tourism businesses now operate across the city, directly employing more than 2900 people, while the sector generated an estimated $454 million for the local economy in 2025.
The figures were revealed as government representatives, tourism operators and event organisers gathered at Sirromet Winery for the 2026 Redlands Coast Tourism and Events Forum.
Acting Mayor Julie Talty said the redland City Council-led forum, carrying the theme Future Redlands Coast, provided an important opportunity to explore the ideas and developments that could drive the industry’s next phase of growth.
“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.
“There are nearly 400 businesses operating in the sector in our city, directly employing more than 2900 people.”
Cr Talty said the strength of the industry rested on the combination of its operators and the region’s natural and cultural attractions.
“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 forum delivered industry presentations, interactive panels, practical sessions and networking opportunities designed to strengthen collaboration across the tourism and events sector.
Keynote speaker and SCALA managing director Steve Wiggers addressed the rapidly evolving role of artificial intelligence in tourism during a presentation titled AI in Tourism: What It Is, What It Isn’t, and What to do Next.
Other sessions examined how Redlands Coast could capitalise on the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games, changing tourism and marketing trends, the influence of major and local events and ways to improve the overall visitor experience.
“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,” Cr Talty said.
Council said it would continue working with local businesses, tourism operators and the community to support economic development and jobs growth.
