Having achieved Ecotourism Destination Certification in July 2024, the Capricorn Coast has been named among the world's most inspiring destinations, officially selected as a finalist in the 2025 Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition — a global celebration of excellence in sustainable tourism.

Selected from hundreds of entries around the world, the Capricorn Coast's story “Stronger Than the Storm: Building a Thriving Community for a Sustainable Future” highlights how this resilient regional destination turned a decade of natural disasters into a catalyst for sustainable development, community strength, and environmental leadership.

Capricorn Enterprise team member, Eloise Chaffers, represented the region over the weekend at the Green Destinations Conference in Montpellier, France, whilst in Europe visiting family after attending Tourism and Events Qld “Queensland is Calling” Trade event last week.  Eloise is proudly flying the flag for the Capricorn Coast on the Southern Great Barrier Reef and sharing our story on the global stage. Her attendance ensures our small but mighty destination has a voice among the world's leading sustainable tourism advocates.

“This is an extraordinary moment to celebrate the Capricorn Coast's Ecotourism Destination Certification,” said Mary Carroll, CEO of Capricorn Enterprise.

“To be recognised as one of the globes Ecotourism destinations puts the Capricorn Coast firmly on the map as a leader in sustainable tourism, and a powerful example of what small communities can achieve when they come together with purpose.”

Mayor Adam Belot of Livingstone Shire Council said the accolade reflects the strength of local collaboration.

“Livingstone Shire Council takes great pride in the strong relationships we share with community organisations across our region.”

“Together, we've turned adversity into opportunity, safeguarding our environment and investing in infrastructure that will stand the test of time.”

“Being named among the world's Top 100 Sustainable Tourism Stories is a reflection of what we can achieve when council staff and community work hand in hand for a sustainable future.”

The Green Destinations Top 100 Stories competition has run annually since 2014 and celebrates destinations creating meaningful change.

Entries are assessed using the GSTC-Recognized Green Destinations Standard and receive an official scorecard, providing transparency and public accountability in sustainable destination management.

Being selected in the Top 100 has opened the door to international exposure through Green Destinations' marketing channels and shared our story at this annual Green Destinations Conference in Montpellier, France .

Most notably, the Capricorn Coast is now a finalist for a prestigious Green Destinations Story Award, to be presented at ITB Berlin — the world's largest travel trade show — in March 2026.

“This is a proud moment for Australia,” said Elissa Keenan, CEO of Ecotourism Australia.

“The Capricorn Coast joins Townsville and the Central Coast in New South Wales as one of just three Australian destinations selected in the Top 100 this year.”

“Their story demonstrates the kind of grassroots leadership, innovation and community spirit that defines truly sustainable tourism.”

“We are thrilled to see regional destinations like Capricorn Coast being recognised on a global stage.”

With cyclone-rated foreshore infrastructure, eight ECO-certified tourism operators, a strong partnership with Traditional Owners, and an ongoing commitment to sustainable growth, the Capricorn Coast continues to lead by example — proving that sustainability is not just achievable, but transformative.

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