Cooktown and Cape York Expo 2021 held this year from 11-20 June attracted government officials, international dignitaries, visitors and community members from across Cape York and Australia, culminating in a spectacular closing ceremony including the final performance of the Warrma and a fireworks display over the Endeavour River.
The largest event in rural Queensland since the COVID-19 lockdowns, the Cooktown and Cape York Expo 2021 delivered more than 150 events, exhibitions, performances, installations, workshops, and a two-day Dynamic Business Symposium.
Designed to celebrate Cooktown’s Reconciliation story, that is shared by Traditional Owners and the non-Indigenous community, the huge success of the event has anchored Cooktown at the heart of Australia’s Reconciliation journey, reinvigorated regional tourism and the economy with more than 10,000 bed nights booked, and reiterated the message that the Cape is open for business.
Cook Shire Mayor, Peter Scott, said, “The cultural and artistic collaboration witnessed in Cooktown over the last ten days, mirrors the joint aspirations for economic and social development and sustainability in our region.
“We are so grateful to Traditional Owners, local Bama, Council staff, the production team and the Indigenous communities from across the Cape who really rose to the occasion and were an integral part of the success of this event.
“The Dynamic Business Symposium highlighted the capacity of remote communities to be able to host world-class business events. The workshops and speakers provided Cape York businesses with insights and understanding on how to leverage innovation and resilience to future-proof their enterprises and secure a slice of the $50 billion domestic tourism market.”
Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnerships, Craig Crawford who attended the opening weekend events, applauded the Expo for authentically showcasing reconciliation in Queensland’s Year of Indigenous Tourism.
“As we reframe our relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples on Queensland’s Path to Treaty, the expo provided a respectful celebration of our shared history. It showcased art, artists, and cultural displays that encouraged attendees to reflect on the past, create a better understanding of the present and contribute towards a brighter, shared future between Aboriginal, Torres Strait Islander and non-Indigenous Queenslanders.
“The success of unique regional events such as this year’s Cooktown and Cape York Expo also reaffirms our state’s position as a leading destination for cultural tourism and experiences with opportunities for First Nations-owned businesses, workforces and communities to thrive.
“Over the last five years, Indigenous tourism has increased by 6.4 percent – demonstrating strong demand and support for authentic First Nations experiences.
“The Queensland Government is proud to have supported the Cooktown and Cape York Expo 2021, and to support regional and remote communities working to recover from the economic impacts of COVID-19. Cooktown and Cape York Expo 2021 was proudly supported by the Australian and Queensland Governments and Cook Shire Council.”
