Eco-tourism operator, Tweed Eco Cruises, has announced a new chapter with the business now under the stewardship of a fifth-generation Tweed family who have longstanding connections to the Tweed River.
Operating on the Tweed River for more than three decades, Tweed Eco Cruises says it has built a strong reputation for ‘environmentally responsible river experiences that celebrate the natural beauty, wildlife and stories of the region’.
They said in media release, ‘This transition marks a thoughtful evolution – building on an established legacy of local stewardship while expanding the ways visitors can experience the Tweed more deeply’.
‘Tweed Eco Cruises is now a proud experience partner of The Hinterland Collection, an emerging tourism group bringing together distinctive accommodation, dining, event and nature-based experiences across the Tweed Shire.
‘Together, these experiences encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more – from river journeys on the Tweed to hinterland accommodation, rainforest walks, agritourism and award-winning dining.
‘The Hinterland Collection includes nationally awarded venues such as Summergrove Estate and Elysian Hills, alongside Potager – A Kitchen Garden, a chef-hatted dining destination celebrating paddock-to-plate cuisine, and Bellingdale Farm, home to Speckle Park beef and immersive agritourism experiences.
Connecting river, hinterland and table
‘Through Tweed Eco Cruises, guests can explore the region’s waterways before extending their stay into the hinterland – enjoying accommodation, celebrations and dining experiences that reflect the diversity and beauty of the Tweed.
This connected approach allows visitors to experience the region holistically: from river to rainforest, food to farming, coast to hinterland.
A leader in eco-tourism and sustainability
‘Tweed Eco Cruises is accredited with Ecotourism Australia and the NSW Government, and in August 2024 was awarded Green Travel Leader Certification. The business has also been recognised with Gold at the NSW Tourism Awards for Tour and Transport Operator and Eco Tourism.
‘Its environmental leadership includes assisting in the development of the Code of Practice for land-based charter fishing activities in the Tweed River, which was later passed as Federal legislation — a significant contribution to sustainable river management.
Building on strong foundations
‘Under the new stewardship, Tweed Eco Cruises is expanding its conservation and community initiatives, including new support for Currumbin Wildlife Hospital, contributing to the rescue and rehabilitation of injured native wildlife.
‘The business has previously participated in river clean-up initiatives in partnership with Tweed Free Divers and community programs such as Clean Up Australia Day, and provides a training ground for two Griffith University marine science students, supporting hands-on learning in river ecology and sustainable tourism.
‘The new stewards have paid tribute to Kylie and her family, acknowledging their long-standing care for Tweed Eco Cruises and the strong legacy they have created on the Tweed River. They have also thanked the dedicated team at ‘Tweed Eco Cruises, many of whom are continuing on, and whose knowledge, passion and commitment remain central to the experience delivered on the water each day.
Looking ahead
‘Our focus is on creating experiences that encourage people to stay longer and truly experience this extraordinary Tweed region,’ said Donna Spedding.
‘We’re deeply grateful to Kylie and her family for the legacy they’ve built, and to the incredible team who continue to bring Tweed Eco Cruises to life. It’s a privilege to build on such strong foundations while looking ahead to what’s possible for the region.’
‘With Tweed Eco Cruises now working alongside a growing network of experiences through The Hinterland Collection, further curated offerings are already being explored. These include photography and art workshops, rainforest walks and stargazing experiences, as well as collaboration with local providers offering cookery classes, pottery, beach horse riding, whale watching, snorkelling and diving.
‘Tweed Eco Cruises will continue to operate from Tweed Heads Marina, offering scheduled cruises, private charters, weddings, corporate events and group experiences year-round.
About the Spedding family
John and Donna Spedding are long-term Tweed residents and multi-award-winning tourism operators behind The Hinterland Collection. Their family’s connection to the Tweed spans five generations, with a strong focus on land stewardship, sustainable tourism and regional employment. Through venues including Summergrove Estate, Elysian Hills, Potager – A Kitchen Garden and Bellingdale Farm, the Speddings have built a reputation for place-based experiences that celebrate the Tweed’s natural and cultural landscape.
For more info visit https://tweedecocruises.com/
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