MILLIONS OF TOURIST DOLLARS SET TO CRUISE INTO TOWNSVILLE

One of the world’s biggest cruise operators is set to sail into Townsville from November, pumping millions into the economy.

Tourism Minister, Margaret Keech, announced in Townsville today that Star Cruises would visit the region as part of several cruise itineraries during a two-month visit to Queensland.

Asia Pacific’s leading cruise line planned an extended stay in Queensland which would generate about $7 million for the state, Mrs Keech said.

The visits would also take in Brisbane, Cairns and the Whitsundays.

Mrs Keech said the Star Cruises commitment was a direct result of Queensland being represented at the recent Seatrade Cruise Ship Expo in Miami.

“Cruise shipping generates more than $51.6 million for the Queensland economy each year and the Beattie Government is dedicated to growing the benefits from cruise tourism,” said Mrs Keech.

“The ‘Superstar Gemini’ will have three separate visits to Queensland waters including an eight night itinerary from Brisbane to Whitsundays and Tropical North Queensland.

“The cruise liner accommodates more than 800 passengers and it is estimated that each time she berths in Queensland it will generate more than $500,000 in direct economic returns for the port.

“The economic benefits of this visit will also be felt right across the tourism industry, from restaurants to tour operators.”

Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds welcomed the announcement.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Townsville,” Mr Reynolds said.

“It offers us the chance to really put Townsville on the world stage as a tourism destination.

“It will be great to show international visitors all the wonderful attractions and experiences they can enjoy in this part of Queensland.

Mrs Keech said the Queensland Tourism Strategy (QTS) was driving new tourism investment and infrastructure in Townsville.

“Townsville is entering an exciting phase of tourism development,” Mrs Keech said.

“Last year tourists spent more than $618 million in the region, making it an extremely important contributor to the local and State economy.

“Through strategic private and public sector partnerships, we are developing plans that will help the region meet future challenges and opportunities.

“The Beattie Government is supporting this planning with increased funding and resources.

“We’ve funded a new Destination Management Officer to implement an Action Plan for the region and we’re working on boosting tourism infrastructure and investment by developing a Regional Tourism Infrastructure and Investment Plan.”

Mrs Keech said Townsville Enterprise was also awarded an $80,000 Special Funding Grant to help integrate tourism development and marketing into Council planning and budgeting.

“The Government, Tourism Queensland and Townsville Enterprise are working together to build a foundation from which tourism can continue to grow as a significant local economic and employment contributor,” she said.

“Townsville will continue to be engaged and supported in the future by these Government and private sector partnerships.”

Media contact: Danial Rochford 0439 533 248