INFRASTRUCTURE AND INVESTMENT KEEPING QUEENSLAND TOURISM MOVING

Infrastructure, investment and partnerships are ensuring Queensland’s tourism industry continues to move forward, says Tourism Minister Margaret Keech.

During a visit to Cairns’ newest five-star hotel development today, Mrs Keech said the Beattie Government’s strategies to encourage investment in tourism infrastructure were clearly working.

She said the Sebel Harbour Lights was just the type of new accommodation infrastructure Queensland desperately needed.

“We are working hard to promote all of Queensland’s diverse tourism experiences, as well as increase airline capacity to and from the state,” Mrs Keech said.

“However, we must ensure that we have the quality and capacity of accommodation to support it.

“It is pivotal to securing new tourism opportunities from international and domestic markets.

“New developments such as this are a shining example of Queensland based companies working together to deliver new tourism opportunities.”

Mrs Keech said new infrastructure and investment was fundamental in generating tourism growth and sustainability.

“The Beattie Government has invested close to $1 billion in new tourism related infrastructure in the past year,” she said.

“And there is currently more than $2 billion worth of tourism related development underway throughout Queensland.

“Under the Queensland Tourism Strategy we are also encouraging public and private sector partnerships to deliver even more exciting new projects.

“Delivering key infrastructure is vital to the future of the states $18 billion tourism industry.”

Mrs Keech said a major QTS initiative was the development of Regional Tourism Investment and Infrastructure Plans designed to identify the different needs of Queensland’s diverse tourism regions.

The plan for Tropical North Queensland was now underway, she said.

“We are working closely with industry to develop an RTIIP to provide clear plans for the infrastructure and investment needed to secure the future of Tropical North Queensland tourism,” Mrs Keech said.

“The plan is being developed in partnership with various Government agencies, local councils and the private sector.

“It is dedicated to increasing employment and economic opportunities in this very important Queensland tourism region.”

Media Contact: Jo Gibbons 3225 1005 or 0421 611 989