Express your love. Share your story. Celebrate Queensland.
Queensland is a tapestry of natural wonders and rich histories, a place where the past and present harmoniously intertwine.
From the sun-drenched coasts to the rugged hinterlands, every corner of this land tells a story. Imagine the ancient rainforests of the Daintree, where centuries-old trees stand as silent witnesses to the passing of time. Their emerald canopies shelter a world of vibrant wildlife, each creature adding a brushstroke to this living masterpiece.
The Great Barrier Reef, a dazzling mosaic of coral and marine life, stretches along the coast, its beauty unrivalled and its presence a testament to nature’s incredible artistry.
Journey inland, and the sweeping plains unfold before you, their vastness a canvas painted with the golden hues of waving grasses. Here, the spirit of the pioneers lingers, their legacy etched into the very soil they once tilled. Small towns dot the landscape, each with its unique charm and story. In these communities, the warmth and resilience of Queensland’s people shine through, their lives woven together by threads of shared history and a love for the land.
The spirit of the First Nations peoples, the original custodians of this land, resonates through sacred sites and ancient traditions, a profound connection to the earth that continues to inspire and teach.
In Queensland, the cities pulse with modern energy, yet never lose sight of their roots. Brisbane, with its vibrant arts scene and bustling riverfront, marries urban sophistication with laid-back charm. Coastal towns like Noosa and Airlie Beach offer idyllic escapes where the rhythm of the ocean soothes the soul. The hinterlands, with their rolling hills and hidden valleys, invite exploration and reflection, each vista a reminder of nature’s grandeur. Queensland is a place where every sunrise and sunset paints the sky in breathtaking hues, a daily reminder of the wonder that exists in this wide, brown land.
This is Queensland—a place where the land and its people share an unbreakable bond, where history and nature converge to create something truly extraordinary. Whether it’s the ancient stories, or modern tales, Queensland’s beauty and spirit captivate all who call it home.
Community Writing Competition
The Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition captured the essence of what makes Queensland so special to each of us. This is your opportunity to reflect on your experiences, memories, and connections to Queensland and express them in a love letter.
All forms of expression were welcomed of up to 300 words—a touching poem, a humorous anecdote, or a simple line that captured your love. Submissions closed Wednesday 31 July.
Shopping vouchers will be awarded for best submissions in Adult ($500), Under 18 Years ($250), and Under 12 Years ($200) divisions plus Highly Commended Certificates and announced on Thursday 5 September.
Special event
The Love Letter to Queensland event – 6:30pm-9pm Thursday 5 September, Coral Sea Resort, Airlie Beach – will feature a stimulating lineup of notable speakers, each presenting their own love letters to Queensland, offering a diverse array of perspectives and experiences:
MARCO RENAI, awarded 2024 Queenslander of the Year, recognised for his impactful work with at-risk youth through the Men of Business program.
ELIZABETH HACKETT, Executive Chair of the Australian Adventure Tourism Group, known for her significant contributions to the tourism industry and the Whitsunday Skyway project.
DR CHRIS SARRA CEO of the Office of First Nations Engagement and Innovation, leading initiatives for youth engagement within Queensland.
DR MELISSA ASHLEY, award-winning author of historical fiction novels and celebrated academic
ANDREW WILLCOX MP, Federal Member for Dawson will announce and read the winning Love Letter to Queensland community writing competition entries.
KAREN JACOBSEN, President of the Whitsunday Writers Festival, international speaker, concert artist and songwriter, author, and the voice behind over a billion GPS and smartphone devices.
When: 6:30pm-9:00pm Thursday 6 September 2024
Where: Coral Sea Resort ballroom, Airlie Beach
Registration: Tickets are strictly limited.
- Premium tickets have now sold out.
- General tickets are available for standard $49/$39 concession and includes light supper and two drink vouchers followed by a cash bar.
This event will be a heartwarming celebration of community and love for our state. Don’t miss out on the chance to be part of this memorable occasion!
Thanks to our Love Letter to Queensland partners
