Tourism leaders put Outback Queensland on Minister’s agenda
Local tourism leaders including Outback Queensland Tourism Association representatives will be in Longreach today meeting with the Hon Stirling Hinchliffe MP, Minister for Tourism Industry Development and Innovation for Sport.
OQTA CEO Denise Brown said this is Minister Hinchliffe’s first visit to Outback Queensland under his new cabinet portfolio. “This is a great opportunity to meet face-to-face with the Minister in the heart of the region and put forward the region’s challenges and opportunities at this pivotal recovery time and into the future,” Ms Brown said.
“Discussions with the Minister will include opportunities for planning and investment in tourism infrastructure, marketing and product, as well as updates on our current campaign ‘Reinvent the reason – extend the season’.
“Tourism is an important sector in Outback Queensland, supporting around 4,600 jobs and generating $467.4 million for the local economy,” she said.
“Outback Queensland really stepped up to the plate last year as restrictions lifted and people headed our way like never before. But to continue the momentum and take advantage of peak domestic traveller interest we need sustainable programs and investment to open the door to the many outstanding Outback opportunities.
“We know that opportunity doesn’t knock like this more than once and everyone we speak to across the region from motel operators, to tour guides, to local councils are really pumped for this year, ready to harness this peak in interest and create a sustainable legacy that thrives into the future.
Minister Hinchliffe announced a new industry reference panel yesterday focussed on developing Queensland’s Action Plan for Tourism Recovery.
“We look forward to working with this panel, and future roundtable discussions with the Minister. OQTA will continue to put forward the interests of our region as we unite and recover from COVID-19 to benefit all of Queensland.
Meetings today will be followed by the Qantas Founders Museum Red and White Gala evening to launch the Airpark Roof and Luminescent experience, which was postponed due to COVID-19 last year.
Ms Brown said: “This year across Outback Queensland we have fantastic new and refreshed product available. This includes the spectacular Luminescent experience at the Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach. The attraction opened last year, with new additions to the venue completed a few weeks ago ready for the 2021 tourism season.”
“From growing Australia’s greatest tourism icons like Qantas, to continuing to grow and build new product in the face of distance and ongoing drought – Outback Queensland is truly synonymous with great Aussie travel.
“The investment in new and updated product underlines the integrity of our tourism industry and are important assets for our region, attracting new and return visitors to book their Outback holiday,” she said.
“This is a world-class presentation that just takes your breath away – showcasing the history of Australia’s flagship aviation carrier as well as the region that is its birthplace. The evening show also helps promote more overnight stays as visitors stick around to watch the show and have dinner in town.
“Since opening, Luminescent has been hugely popular with tickets sold out well in advance. So, as with everything bookings are essential for your Outback Queensland attractions and accommodation to avoid disappointment!”
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Contact: Denise Brown – CEO OQTA | E: ceo@outbackqueensland.com.au | Ph: +61 438 394 492
