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Hotel general managers from Far North Queensland’s top accommodation establishments gathered at the Crystalbrook Riley Resort Cairns to discuss the ongoing challenges the sector faces on the long road to post-pandemic recovery. The event coincided with the Far North Queensland Regional Parliament sitting at the Cairns Convention Centre.

More than 20 general managers gathered at the luxury resort to discuss the issues facing the accommodation sector, which has been hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic. Attendees shared their experiences and insights on how to tackle the current challenges.

One of the key topics discussed was the issue of labour and skills shortages, which is a national issue. However, in the Far North, the lack of affordable housing for workers is another barrier to getting staff. The pent-up domestic demand boosted hotels when pandemic restrictions first lifted, but that has returned to a more seasonal normal. Now, the focus is on the return of international tourists.

Many members were excited about resuming direct flights from New Zealand and Singapore, bringing a much-needed major tourist market back to the area. Japan directs are set to resume next month, which is expected to boost the tourism industry in the region further.

The Minister for Tourism, Innovation and Sport attended Stirling Hinchliffe’s event and listened to managers’ views in one of the country’s premier tourist areas. The Queensland Hotels Association hosted the event, and a post-meeting event with Cabinet members was held after the discussions.

TAA CEO and acting CEO of the Accommodation Association, Michael Johnson, said, “it was great to be able to connect with about 20 GMs from Far North Queensland and members of the Queensland Government. The amalgamation of TAA and the Accommodation Association is now only weeks away and will see a united, single voice for the accommodation sector.”

QHA CEO Bernie Hogan said, “it was a great opportunity for the QHA, TAA, and AA to come together and deliver an informative update to members along with networking with the Queensland Government in Cairns.”

The event was an important opportunity for general hotel managers to share their experiences and insights as the sector works towards post-pandemic recovery. The challenges facing the Far North Queensland accommodation industry are significant, but the discussions held at the event will help to inform the sector’s approach to tackling these issues.