Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) has proudly announced that four of its members have been inducted into the Ecotourism Hall of Fame. Their inclusion celebrates a commitment of 20 years to maintaining global sustainability standards.

TTNQ CEO Mark Olsen applauded the achievements of Big Cat Green Island Cruises, Calypso Reef Cruises, Passions of Paradise, and Sunlover Reef Cruises, joining 59 other Australian businesses previously honored.

Olsen remarked, “Our region is committed to sustainability, with 240 certified experiences. This includes 196 Eco-certified and 44 Sustainable Tourism Accreditation experiences, along with two businesses and four Earth Check certified experiences.”

Protecting Biodiversity

In Tropical North Queensland, two UNESCO Natural World Heritage sites converge: the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest, both rich in biodiversity and ancient traditions.

Sustainable tourism in the area encourages visitors to engage with the land and sea, fostering a deeper understanding of a lifestyle harmonious with nature for thousands of years.

Passions of Paradise CEO Scotty Garden stated that their family-run business has educated guests about the Great Barrier Reef for 36 years, focusing on sustainable and immersive experiences that foster a connection with the ocean. “Our ocean-loving team offers visitors a unique view of our conservation efforts, including planting 9000 corals and conducting over 1000 surveys for the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s Eye on the Reef program over 17 years. We are honored to contribute to conservation through tourism,” Garden emphasized.

Similarly, Sunlover Reef Cruises’ Chief Operating Officer Andre MacLaughlin highlighted their pride in being recognized for two decades as members of Ecotourism Australia, noting, “Since 1990, we have showcased the stunning Moore Reef to over two million guests. We value our role as reef custodians through education, training, and sustainable practices.”