FUNDING GRANT TO BOOST MACKAY TOURISM

The Mackay region will receive a special funding grant of $80,000 from the Beattie Government to help deliver a regional coal trail and riverfront precinct for the city, Tourism Minister Margaret Keech announced today.

Mrs Keech said the grant was an outcome of the Beattie Government’s Queensland Tourism Strategy (QTS) and part of an extra $1 million a year provided for Regional Tourism organisations (RTOs) under the strategy.

“I congratulate Mackay Tourism on receiving the grant based on a submission dedicated to developing local tourism,’’ she said.

“The majority of this initial funding will be invested by Mackay Tourism in developing local tourism products and experiences, including the Mackay Region Coal Trail, Mackay Riverfront Precinct and the Mackay Regional Showcase.

“The Coal Trail will allow visitors to complete a 300km self-drive route filled with fascinating sights and attractions including mines and associated machinery, historic towns such as Nebo and Clermont, indigenous heritage, beef, sugar, art and craft.

“The expansion of a distinctive tourism precinct along the Mackay CBD riverfront to enhance the city’s appeal to leisure and business visitors formed another part of the project.

“The funding will also be used to undertake Destination Visitor Surveys to provide valuable advice and guidance for the further development of the region. It will help increase visitor numbers, length of stay and expenditure from tourism.

“Upgrades to local attractions will also be considered in order to make them more appealing to the tourist market.

“This will generate new employment opportunities and income in an area largely dependent upon mining-related jobs.”

Mackay Tourism General Manager David Phillips said increased investment by the State Government in Mackay was necessary to promote and develop local tourism experiences.

“Mackay has a range of opportunities available to further develop tourism events, destinations and experiences in the region,” Mr Phillips said.

“The increased financial and resource support from the State Government’s Queensland Tourism Strategy will allow Mackay to build local product.”

Media contacts: Jo Gibbons 3224 2007 or David Smith 3225 1005 / 0409 496 534