TIGER AIRWAYS POUNCE ON SUNSHINE COAST OPPORTUNITY

Tourism Minister Margaret Keech is delighted at the announcement today of new Tiger Airways services from Melbourne to the Sunshine Coast.

Mrs Keech said the flights starting on 1 December were fantastic news for the Sunshine Coast.

“Just weeks after Tiger Airways announced it was starting services to the Gold Coast, Rockhampton and Mackay, we now have a fourth Queensland route,” Mrs Keech said.

“When Tiger announced those first services, I predicted it wouldn’t be long till the company realised the benefits of adding other recognised Queensland destinations like the Sunshine Coast.

“This service will operate three times a week, adding an additional 56,000 seats a year in and out of the Sunshine Coast.

“A return trip will cost as little as $120, giving many more Victorians the chance to experience the Sunshine Coast’s wonderful offerings.

“Melbournites are famous for loving a Sunshine Coast jaunt, and now more of them will be able to do just that!”

Mrs Keech said the new flights were recognition of the Sunshine Coast’s status as a destination.

“With this announcement, Tiger Airways is acknowledging the strength of the Sunshine Coast as one of Queensland’s most significant and popular destinations,” she said.

“215,000 Victorians visited the Sunshine Coast in the year to March 2007.

“These flights will help raise that figure even further, bringing more Victorians right into the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

“In addition it’s wonderful to see these services starting in early December, just in time for the busy summer holiday period.”

In early July, Tiger Airways announced direct flights to the Gold Coast, Rockhampton and Mackay starting on 23 November.

Media contact: Peter McCarthy 3225 1005