The Rockhampton Region has once again lit up the Queensland Tourism Awards stage, earning prestigious recognition for both destination marketing and major event delivery.
Hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the Queensland Tourism Awards celebrate excellence across the state's tourism sector, honouring the finest businesses, campaigns, events and individuals.
Nominated by Advance Rockhampton, Rockhampton Regional Council's Tourism, Industry Development, Marketing and Major Events team, Explore Rockhampton has claimed BRONZE in the 'Richard Power Award for Tourism Marketing and Campaigns' category for its bold "Every Season, A New Reason" campaign, and Rare Spares Rockynats has secured SILVER in the 'Festivals and Events' category, following a record-breaking year in 2025.
Rare Spares Rockynats delivered its biggest year yet, with the highest-ever number of entrants, strongest economic impact at $9.9 million, and most overnight visitor stays in the event's history.
The festival has cemented its status as one of Australia's premier regional automotive events, drawing national attention and turbocharging Rockhampton's reputation as a top-tier events destination.
The Explore Rockhampton campaign positioned the region as Queensland's premier year-round events destination — tackling a weekend leisure visitation gap and driving real results.
The campaign led to a $23.2 million increase in visitor expenditure and a 14.2% rise in leisure visitor nights, showcasing the power of events to grow tourism sustainably.
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said the awards reflect the region's reputation as a tourism and events powerhouse.
"Rockhampton is one of Queensland's most exciting tourism and events destinations and these awards reflect that.
"This recognition celebrates our bold approach to destination marketing and the incredible energy of Rockynats that brings our city to life.
"Every season truly is a new reason to visit Rockhampton — and these awards show the rest of Queensland is taking notice. These awards recognise the horsepower behind the scenes — organisers, volunteers, sponsors, and community who make our region and events roar to life every year."
Quotes attributable to Tourism Coordinator Advance Rockhampton Lauren Law
"We filled an event calendar — and then filled hotel rooms, restaurants, attractions and streets with visitors.
"This award recognises the power of events to shape our city's future and the strength of our partnerships with operators, creatives, and the community."
Quotes attributable to Rockhampton Summernats Director Andy Lopez
"Rockynats has become one of the most significant events in the Aussie automotive scene.
"It was created specifically for this amazing town, with on-street drag racing, burnouts and drifting by the river, the stunning Show N Shine in historic Quay Street, and Australia's biggest automotive street parade.
"We're excited to keep this incredible partnership going with Rockhampton Regional Council and the community of Rockhampton. The next five years are going to be awesome."
To explore the campaign, visit: www.explorerockhampton.com.au
To learn more about Rockynats06, 17-19 April 2026, visit: www.rockynats.com.au
For more on the Queensland Tourism Awards, visit: www.qtic.com.au/queensland-tourism-awards
