Byron Theatre to Host 2025 North Coast Tourism SymposiumAmidst 130 Year Community Celebration
Jon Howell, Theatre Manager
In a landmark event for the region, Byron Theatre will host the 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium on Thursday 31 July 2025, marking the first time this prestigious event takes place in the Byron Shire. The Symposium will be held at the iconic Byron Theatre, located within the Byron Community Centre, which is celebrating its 130th anniversary this year.
Organised by Destination North Coast in collaboration with Byron Shire Council, the symposium will convene industry leaders, innovators and stakeholders from across the North Coast to explore the theme: Inspire! Shaping Tomorrow’s Visitor Economy. The event aims to highlight the innovative, entrepreneurial and sustainable practices transforming the region's tourism landscape.
Keynote speaker Mark Bouris AM will open with insights on innovation in business, followed by expert-led sessions on AI and market trends. Highlights will include an update on DNSW's NSW First program, a presentation by Tourism Australia tying national strategy to the North Coast and powerful grassroots stories from local tourism operators.
“Hosting the symposium at Byron Theatre during the Byron Community Centre's 130th year is a testament to our enduring commitment to community and cultural development,” says Jon Howell, Theatre Manager. “It’s a chance to reflect on Byron Shire’s rich history while looking ahead to an exciting future in North Coast tourism.”
Established in 1895 as the Byron Bay School of Arts, the Byron Community Centre has grown into a vibrant, community-owned space for arts, culture and social connection. As the community centre marks 130 years in 2025, the Symposium offers a fitting moment to honour that legacy, with dynamic tourism experiences through the Byron Markets since 1987 and Byron Theatre from 2003.
“This is more than just a tourism conference,” adds Jon. “It’s a celebration of everything this venue stands for. A place where ideas are shared, communities are strengthened and the spirit of Byron is felt in every conversation.”
The 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium hosted by Destination North Coast and Byron Shire Council will be held on Thursday 31 July, 2025 from 9am–4pm. Tickets are on sale now.
Tickets: 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium and Regional Tourism Awards Gala
About 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium
Date: Thursday 31 July 2025 | Time: 9am – 4pm
Location: Byron Theatre, 69 Jonson Street, Byron Bay
What defines innovation? Where can we pull inspiration from to evolve our offering to align with future demand? How can your experience(s) be more memorable, authentic and unique? Can local stories, culture and history be meaningfully woven into what you deliver?
The 2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium explores the future of tourism through the lens of innovation, personalisation and purposeful visitor engagement. Under the theme Inspire! Shaping Tomorrow’s Visitor Economy, this year’s program brings together leading voices to challenge and inspire. Keynote speaker Mark Bouris AM, renowned Australian entrepreneur and changemaker, will headline a program that provokes fresh thinking on value creation, destination leadership and the power of experience in a competitive landscape.
Join us for a day of insight, inspiration and practical ideas that will shape how we welcome and connect with tomorrow’s visitors.
2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards Gala (SOLD OUT)
6pm until late | Elements of Byron
A night of celebration as Destination North Coast, in partnership with NSW Tourism Association, announces the winners of the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards. The much-loved annual Awards Gala presents an opportunity to gather and celebrate the growth and entrepreneurship of tourism businesses and industry partners across the North Coast Destination Network region.
About Byron Community Centre
The Byron Community Centre is an independent charity and not-for-profit organisation that improves the social and cultural wellbeing of the community through essential services, inclusive activities and inspiring events.
Byron Markets | Byron Theatre | Byron Spaces | Byron Volunteering | Fletcher Street Cottage | Byron Seniors Club
For more information please see: www.byroncentre.com.au