Let us show you the Best of Cairns.
Tours, day trips and experiences across Cairns, handpicked from local operators, book directly.
Our Mission
To drive sustainable tourism growth that benefits our community, preserves our natural wonders, and creates world-class visitor experiences.
Heidi and Marty have been part of the Cairns tourism industry for more than 25 years and have operated one of Cairns’ original tourism websites for over two decades. With extensive travel experience and a genuine passion for Cairns and Tropical North Queensland, they offer first-hand knowledge of the region and its many experiences. Their focus is on providing personalised itineraries and five-star service, tailored to each client’s interests and needs. Their extensive experience means their recommendations are based on first-hand knowledge, not simply research. The Great Barrier Reef is a particular passion. Both certified divers, Heidi and Marty have worked on the reef and experienced many of the region’s reef tours, giving them the knowledge to help visitors choose the experience that’s right for them. From reef trips and skydiving to rafting, zip-lining, hot-air ballooning and countless other adventures, they have experienced the best of Tropical North Queensland and are passionate about helping visitors make the most of their time in this incredible region.
- Partnering with local operators
- Protecting the Reef and Rainforest
- Celebrating Indigenous culture
Our People
Meet the leadership team.
Marty Yates
Director
Marty looks after everything IT related for visitcairns.com.au, so if you're reading it here – he probably wrote it. With over 30 years in Australian tourism, with experience in fields such as accommodation, reef cruises, reservations, IT and marketing. He's been involved in some non-tourism projects along the way in food and hospitality, but the one he's most proud of was reopening the Mareeba Drive In Cinema. He's always loved film and it was always a dream of his to one day run his own cinema. Marty is passionate about Cairns and the Tropical North. Spending his spare time scuba diving, sailing, hiking, 4wding and seakayaking, he knows the region like few others.
Heidi Yates
Director
Heidi is our Groups, Events and Charter Specialist, with more than 25 years of organising Private Charters, Groups, special Events and VIP experiences. Over the years, she has arranged experiences for well-known personalities including UK comedian Bill Bailey, film director Baz Luhrmann and Gary Barlow from Take That. Heidi loves a challenge and believes that almost anything is possible. Heidi is passionate about travel, adventure, nature and photography, but the Great Barrier Reef holds a special place in her heart. Having worked on the reef for years and scuba dived around the world, she has a wealth of first-hand experience. She has a special fascination with sharks. She spent three days cage diving face-to-face with Great White Sharks in South Australia — and absolutely loved it!
Our Values
Guiding principles that shape everything we do.
Sustainability
Protecting the Reef, Rainforest, and natural environment for future generations.
Community
Ensuring tourism delivers lasting benefits for local people and Traditional Owners.
Excellence
Setting the standard for world-class visitor experiences across the region.
Innovation
Finding new ways to grow tourism while reducing impact and sharing our story.
What We Do
Connecting visitors, operators, and communities.
Visitor Services
Helping travellers plan unforgettable Tropical North Queensland experiences.
Industry Support
Working with operators to build a stronger, more sustainable tourism industry.
Destination Marketing
Sharing our region with the world and attracting the right visitors.