QTIC Chief Executive Daniel Gschwind said the 35th annual Awards will celebrate the achievements of local tourism operators following an exceptional year in 2018.

"Outback Queensland tourism operators continue to significantly contribute to the industry and the community, bringing in $663 million to the region in 2018," Mr Gschwind said.

"It was fantastic to see Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo take the Gold for the Festivals and Events category at both a State and National level and we can't wait to see more Outback Queensland tourism operators toss their hat in the ring for this year's awards."

Businesses can enter 28 award categories at this year's Awards, which honour achievements, specific events and individuals, and the diverse array of tourism operators that have contributed to the booming Queensland tourism industry.

Nominations for the 2019 Queensland Tourism Awards will be open until Friday 31 May.

For more information and to enter, visit www.queenslandtourismawards.com.au.

The awards come as Queensland welcomed 2.8 million international visitors and more than 22 million domestic visitors in 2018 and now the Premier announced 2019 as the Year of Outback Tourism.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the government was committed to partnering with tourism operators to diversify the economy in outback Queensland.

"More tourists than ever before are travelling to outback Queensland and for the first time, we expect to crack one million visitors in 2019 - that's more than 13 per cent growth year-on-year," Ms Jones said.

Now in its third year, the RACQ People's Choice Award will again provide the public with the opportunity to have their say and vote for their favourite tourism experience and service, or accommodation provider when submissions have been finalised in late August.

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