After many many emails, phone calls and a nervous wait EducaTours of Australia is very pleased to hear the announcement by the Queensland Dept of Tourism, Innovation & Sport that this incredible program has been extended for another year!

"The Great Barrier Reef Education Experience Program provides a subsidy to primary and secondary school students in Queensland undertaking school excursions along the length of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR), from Bundaberg to Cooktown. The program supports opportunities for students to undertake place-based learning activities in the GBR, and provides opportunities for tourism operators in the region to enhance and develop educational products and experiences to stimulate new market travel and subsequent tourism visitation to the region.

Commencing in June 2021, the 3 year program provides up to $150 per student paid directly to schools to go towards the cost of a school excursion which includes a reef experience.

To be eligible for the subsidy the school excursion itinerary must include at least 1 curriculum-related reef activity, facilitated by a commercial reef tourism operator registered with the program, operating within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park and World Heritage boundaries.

Applications for the education subsidy are now open to schools for excursions planned to be undertaken up until December 2024."

 information from QLD Government - Department of Tourism, Innovation & Sport website (https://www.dtis.qld.gov.au/tourism/funds/experience-programs-education/great-barrier-reef)

Working closely with our partners, Experience Co (GBR Bilology), Great Barrier Reef adventures are certainly a highlight for school groups travelling to Cairns and we cannot wait to see what 2024 has in store! Pack your swimsuit and don't forget the sunscreen!