2026 Tourism Conference
For three days, Carnarvon became the centre of Western Australia’s tourism industry as tourism leaders, operators, businesses and industry professionals from across the State arrived for the WA Tourism Conference 2026.
While the conference itself focused on tourism, innovation and regional collaboration, for Carnarvon and Coral Bay it represented something much bigger, an opportunity to showcase our region on a state stage, support local businesses, strengthen partnerships and demonstrate what can be achieved when an entire community comes together.
From accommodation providers, cafes and restaurants through to tourism operators, volunteers, community groups and local businesses, the conference created opportunities across the region while placing Carnarvon and Coral Bay firmly in the spotlight.
Over three days, delegates didn’t simply attend a conference, they experienced our region firsthand.
Day One – Showcasing Our Region
The conference began by taking delegates beyond conference rooms and presentations and immersing them in the experiences that make our region unique.
Delegates participated in local tours, cultural experiences, visitor centre sessions and industry showcases designed to highlight the diversity, innovation and authenticity of experiences available throughout the region.
Delegates explored local history, culture, agriculture and tourism through guided cultural tours, heritage experiences, industry showcase tours and opportunities to connect directly with local producers and operators.
The day concluded with a spectacular networking sundowner at Quobba Station, where delegates experienced the stunning Carnarvon coastline while connecting with tourism operators, businesses and industry leaders from across Western Australia.
As the sun set over the coast, the evening provided more than networking opportunities, it provided delegates with a genuine experience of the landscapes, hospitality and community spirit that define the region.
Behind the scenes, countless local businesses, volunteers, tourism operators and community members worked together to bring the day to life and create memorable experiences for visitors.
Day Two – Learning, Collaboration and Celebration
Tuesday marked the official opening of the conference with a Welcome to Country by Yinggarda Elder Kath Ryan, followed by addresses from Tourism Minister Hon Reece Whitby MLA and Shire of Carnarvon CEO Amanda Dexter.
Throughout the day, delegates explored topics shaping the future of tourism including visitor trends, regional aviation and connectivity, artificial intelligence, destination marketing, workforce challenges and opportunities for regional growth.
The conference created valuable opportunities for businesses, operators and regional communities to share ideas, learn from one another and build stronger connections across the tourism industry.
That evening, delegates gathered beneath the iconic satellite dish at the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum for the Conference Awards Dinner, experiencing one of Carnarvon’s most unique attractions while celebrating tourism excellence across Western Australia.
Guests were also treated to a dining experience that celebrated the flavours of the Gascoyne. Renowned chef Don Hancey worked alongside his team, visiting chefs and lecturers from Geraldton TAFE to create the Conference Awards Dinner menu, showcasing exceptional local produce from across the region. In the lead-up to the event, Carnarvon Community College Certificate II Hospitality students had the opportunity to work alongside the chefs, assisting with preparations that became part of the canapés, entrées and main courses served throughout the evening. Several students also gained valuable hands-on experience working at the event itself, serving delegates, tourism operators and industry leaders from across Western Australia. The collaboration highlighted the strength of local partnerships while providing young people with a unique opportunity to learn from industry professionals and contribute to a state-significant event.
Approximately 200 guests attended the evening, which included presentations for the Tourism Town Awards and industry recognition.
One of the biggest moments of the evening came when Carnarvon was recognised with Silver in the Small Tourism Town category, an achievement reflecting the dedication of local businesses, volunteers, tourism operators and community members who continue working to showcase the region.
The recognition served as an important reminder that while destinations may be recognised with awards, these achievements are built by communities.
Day Three – Experiencing Carnarvon Firsthand
The final day focused on partnerships, storytelling and the future of tourism before delegates once again headed into the community to experience Carnarvon firsthand.
Delegates visited local businesses and attractions including Bumbak & Sons, the Sweeter Banana packaging facility, Gwoonwardu Mia and Sea Harvest while learning more about the industries, people and projects helping shape the future of the region.
Tours also highlighted major projects contributing to Carnarvon’s future growth and liveability, including updates on Van Dongen Park, The Pier development, the One Mile Jetty project and restoration works currently underway on the historic Tramway Bridge.
By experiencing these projects firsthand, delegates gained insight into both the opportunities and ambitions driving Carnarvon forward.
The conference concluded at the One Mile Jetty Precinct with a special closing event featuring performances from the Perth Orchestra alongside talented local students, creating a fitting end to a conference built around connection, collaboration and celebrating regional Western Australia.
More Than a Conference
While delegates have now returned home, the benefits of hosting the WA Tourism Conference will continue long after the final session ended.
The conference delivered immediate economic benefits across accommodation, hospitality, retail and tourism businesses while also creating valuable opportunities to showcase Carnarvon and Coral Bay to influential tourism professionals, decision makers and industry leaders from across Western Australia.
Beyond economic outcomes, the conference provided something equally valuable, the opportunity to tell our story.
Most importantly, the conference demonstrated what our community does best: welcoming visitors, supporting one another and proudly showcasing everything that makes our region special.
The success of the conference would not have been possible without the incredible efforts of volunteers, businesses, community groups, sponsors, tourism operators, Traditional Owners, contractors, performers and community members who gave their time, energy and passion to help showcase the very best of Carnarvon.
For a few days, Western Australia came to Carnarvon and Carnarvon delivered.
View more photos here