CENTRAL QUEENSLAND CONTINUES TO ATTRACT TOURISTS

Americans and Europeans are driving international tourism numbers in Central Queensland, according to the latest International Visitor Survey (IVS) results.

Tourism Minister Margaret Keech said Central Queensland had seen strong increases from markets such as the United States, Germany and other European countries in the figures for the year ending December 2006.

“The land of gorges, hinterland and gemfields is continuing to cement its reputation worldwide as a premier holiday destination,” Mrs Keech said.

“The region saw a staggering 34 per cent increase in international visitation from the US, followed closely by Germany (15 per cent) and other European countries (16 per cent).”

Mrs Keech said the international visitors to Central Queensland were almost all purely holidaymakers, with 82 per cent of the tourists from overseas visiting for leisure purposes.

“The region is cementing itself as a very popular Queensland holiday destination,” she said.

“It is easy to see why international visitation to Central Queensland grew by three per cent, with 99,397 making the trip last year.

“Central Queensland offers visitors a lovely blend of laidback country charm amidst diverse natural beauty.

“Drawn by the combination of coastal cities, islands, rainforest and gemfields - they couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Mrs Keech said the great results were a testament to the hard work being done by Tourism Queensland, Capricorn Tourism & Development Organisation, Gladstone Area Promotion and Development Ltd and industry in these markets.

“It is great to see the effort paying off in the Central Queensland region,” Mrs Keech said.

“More importantly, the result equals real economic returns and more job opportunities for Queensland communities.”

Media contacts: Jo Gibbons 3224 2007 or David Smith 3225 1005