Positive discussions on Reef water safety ahead of New Year industry roundtable

Industrial Relations Minister Grace Grace met with Cairns tourism representatives today following four snorkeling deaths in the last month. 

The visit was as a result of meeting with Col McKenzie from the Association of Marine Park Tourism Operators in Brisbane last week. 

Ms Grace said that Queensland’s water safety regime for snorkeling operators was a big focus of today’s meeting. 

“Following my meeting with Col last week, I determined to visit Cairns as soon as I could to hear of any industry concerns first-hand. 

“Col knows this industry back to front and it was really important to meet with him and other tourism operators to discuss the way forward. 

“We’ll continue to work with all industry stakeholders to ensure the safest possible environment exists for tourists and holiday-makers and today’s meeting was a good start in this process,” she said. 

Ms Grace said that today’s meeting was a prelude to a wider industry roundtable to be held in the New Year.

“Queensland already has Australia’s strongest safety standards for the recreational water industry,” she said. 

“We’re the only State or Territory that comprehensively regulates recreational diving and snorkeling. 

“Our industry code of practice provides specific advice to operators on medical fitness, rescue, first aid and oxygen provision and other matters. 

“Workplace Health and Safety also provides reef visitors with a safety information brochure published in 12 languages. 

“Safety is our number one priority – our aim is to ensure holiday makers and visitors are able to experience our magnificent reef safely.”

Media Contact: Tania Reeves 0418 700 419