In a landmark move that underscores Queensland's growing commitment to ecotourism, World Expeditions has been appointed the preferred partner of two of the state's most iconic walking experiences: the newly developed Ngaro Track on Whitsunday Island and the renowned Thorsborne Trail on Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island).

Announced today in Townsville and Airlie Beach, this dual appointment marks a significant milestone for sustainable tourism in Australia. The Queensland Government, through the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (DETSI), has selected World Expeditions to deliver fully supported guided walking experiences, following a competitive tender process.

The 32-kilometre Ngaro Track, years in planning and constructed by the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS), offers a rare opportunity to explore the rich biodiversity and Indigenous heritage of Whitsunday Island—the largest island in the Whitsunday Islands National Park and a key site within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area.

Traversing ancient rainforest growing on sand, dramatic vine thickets, rocky headlands, and high lookouts like Whitsunday Craig, the Ngaro Track links the iconic Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet.

In an Australian first, World Expeditions' division Australian Walking Holidays will deliver an immersive 3 day / 2 night, low-impact walking experience, supported by purpose-built infrastructure including two beautifully appointed campsites designed to enhance the walker experience.

Crucially, the project was developed in partnership with the Ngaro People, Traditional Owners of Whitsunday Island. Their deep spiritual connection and knowledge of Country are woven into the interpretive storytelling that guides the journey. World Expeditions is committed to continuing the work of the Ngaro people to ensure that Ngaro culture and history is a prominent part of the experience for those on the track.

"Guided by the vision of Destination 2045, Queensland is leading the way in ecotourism, setting a new standard for how nature, culture, and tourism can thrive together,” said Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell. “Through our partnership with World Expeditions, we're redefining ecotourism with experiences that are not only scenic but also smart, low-impact, and deeply respectful of culture and Country. The Ngaro Track and Thorsborne Trail deliver world-class walking adventures that connect people to place, inspire environmental stewardship, and showcase the very best of Queensland's natural beauty."

World Expeditions' Ngaro Track experiences will cater to a wide range of adventurers. Bookings for guided tours will open mid to late-2025.

In a second major announcement, World Expeditions has also been appointed to operate fully supported 4 day / 3 night guided walking tours on the Thorsborne Trail, one of Australia's most revered wilderness trails. Spanning 32 kilometres across Munamudanamy (Hinchinbrook Island), the trail is named after pioneering conservationists Arthur and Margaret Thorsborne and is renowned for its biodiversity and untouched landscapes.

Managed under strict minimal-impact and leave-no-trace principles, the new operational partnership aims to uphold the trail's wild ethos while improving access, education, and visitor support. The project was developed in close collaboration with the Traditional Owners of Hinchinbrook Island, the Bandjin and Girramay People.

“From ancient practices to modern reflections, every aspect of the tours will celebrate the enduring bond between the people and Munamudanamy as well as the intricate connection to the natural environment. We're looking forward to sharing its beauty and cultural significance with visitors from around the world," say the Bandjin People, underlining the profound spirit of this initiative.

The Girramay People added: “This initiative is not only about sharing our stories with visitors, but also about creating meaningful opportunities for our community to reconnect with the island. Together we aim to celebrate and preserve the enduring bond between our people and Munamudanamy, ensuring its legacy continues to inspire future generations."

“At the heart of what we do is creating journeys that honour and protect the landscapes we explore,” said Michael Buggy, General Manager of Australian Walking Holidays. “Both the Ngaro Track and the Thorsborne Trail represent that mission. We're privileged to work with the Traditional Owners of Whitsunday Island, the Ngaro People, and Hinchinbrook Island, the Bandjin and Girramay People, to help shape the next chapter of these spectacular walks.”

Founded in 1975, World Expeditions is a global leader in small-group adventure travel and sustainable trekking experiences. With a reputation for pioneering responsible tourism, it leads a family of 18 specialist travel brands under the World Expeditions Travel Group, including Australian Walking Holidays which is the domestic operating arm of the group. World Expeditions will celebrate the brand's 50th anniversary on September 24 of this year, with joint parties being held at the brands' Sydney headquarters and at Thyangboche Monastery in Nepal, with Mount Everest as the backdrop.