A golden win for a Queensland Young Achiever: Eloise Chaffers shines at the 2025 Queensland Tourism Awards

This prestigious honour recognises an emerging industry leader who demonstrates outstanding professionalism, passion, and commitment to Queensland’s tourism future — qualities Eloise has displayed in abundance throughout her career.

Currently contracting to Capricorn Enterprise as the region’s Tourism & Trade Distribution Representative, Eloise has carved a standout pathway across the tourism landscape. Her experience includes completing her 88 days regional work with Koorana Crocodile Farm, island life at Great Keppel Island Hideaway, and Pumpkin Island, completing her Coxswains with Keppel Konnections, through to representing the Capricorn Coast and Southern Great Barrier Reef in key domestic and international markets.

Her achievements span Global Sustainable Tourism Council certification, supporting Livingstone Shire Council in achieving ECO Destination Certification, delivering operator training, hosting high-value trade famils, and cultivating warm, trusted relationships across the region’s operator network.

Eloise expressed gratitude to the people and organisations who helped shape her career.

“Capricorn Enterprise has supported me from my very first steps in the industry, and I’m so grateful for their belief in me,” Eloise said.

“A special thank you to Mary Carroll, who has been a true mentor and constant source of encouragement throughout my journey.”

Eloise said she also credits her success to the close partnership and opportunities made available through the Regional Tourism Organisation’s membership.

“These opportunities — including mentoring and professional development programs supported by QTIC and TEQ, such as the QTIC Young Professionals Mentoring Program, the Young Tourism Leaders initiative, and TEQ’s trade and digital mentoring — have helped shape the unique and diverse experience I have today.”

She also acknowledged the pivotal role Great Keppel Island Hideaway played by sponsoring her in her early years.

“Tourism has been genuinely life-changing for me — it’s given me purpose, community, and a career I absolutely love.”

Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll said the organisation is incredibly proud to see Eloise recognised on the state’s biggest tourism stage.

“Eloise has taken every opportunity afforded to her over the years, and she has turned each one into genuine impact for our region,” Mary said.

“From championing our destination at global trade shows, to supporting Livingstone Shire Council through ECO Destination Certification, to her warm and inclusive way of bringing people together — she is an extraordinary ambassador for the Capricorn Coast region.”

Eloise’s win shines a spotlight not only on her personal achievements, but also on the strength, resilience and talent of the tourism operators across the Southern Great Barrier Reef.

Capricorn Enterprise extends heartfelt congratulations to Eloise — a remarkable young leader shaping the future of our visitor economy.

Scroll to Top