- The Crisafulli Government delivers grants to supercharge nature-based tourism in Queensland.
- Latest round of Engaging Science Grants delivers $500,000 across 22 recipients.
- The Crisafulli Government is delivering Queensland's tourism future through Destination 2045 and a plan for Queensland's future after a decade of decline under Labor.
The Crisafulli Government is delivering a plan for Queensland's future and supercharging nature-based tourism in Queensland through the latest round of Engaging Science Grants.
Following a record number of applications made, 22 recipients will share in $500,000 of funding through this latest round.
From tracking echidnas to promoting Australian native bush tucker, these grants support projects that integrate science or STEM into nature-based tourism.
Grants of up to $25,000 were available to support events, activities and projects for up to 12 months.
These grants are just one of the ways the Crisafulli Government is delivering Queensland's tourism future through Destination 2045 after a decade of decline under Labor.
Destination 2045 aims to more than double the value of visitor expenditure to Queensland's economy to $84 billion in two decades.
Minister for Science and Innovation Andrew Powell said Queensland was a key location for nature-based science experiences.
"Queensland is turning the great outdoors into the State's biggest science classroom, which is exactly the kind of bold thinking that sets us apart of a global ecotourism leader," Minister Powell said.
"The Crisafulli Government is investing in trailblazing ideas that showcase how science and tourism together can deliver a better future for Queenslanders.
"These projects drive the innovation behind Desination 2045, ensuring Queensland stays at the forefront of cutting-edge sustainable tourism
"By connecting scientific discovery with nature-based experiences, these grants support cutting-edge solutions that showcase Queensland's leadership in sustainable tourism and innovation."
UQ School of Veterinary Science Lecturer Dr Kate Dutton-Regester said the grants would give communities the tools to help track precious native wildlife.
"Budding Echidna Detectives are invited to information sessions on how to identify signs of the mammals and how to record vital scientific data. I am hoping to build a network of trained citizens," Ms Dutton-Regester said.
National Trust Australia (Queensland) Bush Tucker Eco Science initiative, based at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, aims to showcase Australian ingredients through a garden of native edibles.
National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Grants Manager Sarah Elphinstone said hands-on learning brought science, culture, and conservation to life.
"Students and visitors can take part in interactive workshops and school education programs that explore the stories and science behind Australia's native foods," Ms Elphinstone said.
A full list of the 2026 recipients can be found HERE
