Iconic tourism attractions are the focus of the state government's $3m boost announced on Tuesday for outback Queensland's tourism industry.
Described as helping the industry in the outback recover from the COVID-19 shutdowns that strangled its earning capacity, Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk announced the funding during a visit to Longreach, where she visited the new glamping venture, Mitchell Grass Retreat, opened in April by Dave and Tanya Neal.
Outback Queensland Tourism Association president Andrew Martin welcomed the announcement for icon businesses, saying it was fitting recognition for the outback, which was an icon in itself.
While the terms of reference for the funding will be decided by a panel yet to be appointed, Cr Martin said it would lead to the development of new tourism products and experiences.
He said it would be vital in helping the iconic attractions make it through the unprecedented time being experienced.
"It's not broad brush, not for the caravan parks or fish shops, but rest assured OQTA is lobbying for assistance for these too," he said.
"The Year of Outback Tourism helped raise the profile of our region and the government's Outback Tourism Infrastructure Fund and Growing Tourism Infrastructure Fund are contributing to a number of fantastic projects right across the outback.
"With Queensland open for Queenslanders, the vans are back on our roads and operators have seen a marked upswing in bookings across the utback.
"OQTA looks forward to working with the government and industry stakeholders to support our local communities and keep our sector viable, sustainable and attractive to visitors seeking a memorable and authentic holiday experience."
Ms Palaszczuk was given a sneak peek of the 'Luminescent Longreach' light and sound show at the Qantas Founders Museum and its refurbishment of the 1956 Super Constellation aircraft, which the state government has invested $3.3m in.
"Qantas has a long history in Longreach and we're thrilled that visitors will soon be able to learn more about their story at this iconic outback attraction," Ms Palaszczuk said.
"I know COVID-19 has hit the tourism industry and businesses hard and now that we have the health response in Queensland under control, we can focus on our economic recovery.
"Under our $6 billion Unite and Recover for Queensland Jobs plan, we're helping Queenslanders, including our tourism industry, get through this.
"More than nine in 10 tourism businesses across the state are considered small businesses and have been able to access grants, payroll tax relief, electricity bill relief, a jobs support loan scheme, land tax relief, and commercial rent payment deferrals.
"We've also committed tens of millions to the tourism industry to help our major attractions keep running and keep their employees in jobs."
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Sally Gall
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
Based at Blackall, CW Qld, where I've raised a family, run Merino sheep and beef cattle, and helped develop a region - its history, tourism, education and communications. Get in touch at 0427 575 955 if you've got a story idea for me.
