Mackay receives $73,000 grant for tourism development and research

Mackay will receive special funding of $73,000 to develop tourism surrounding the Eungella National Park and to investigate the development of tourism within the local South Sea Islander community, Tourism Minister Desley Boyle announced today.

Member for Mackay Tim Mulherin welcomed the funding.

“Queensland’s unique indigenous culture and environment are among the state’s biggest international tourism selling points – and Mackay has both,” Mr Mulherin said.

“The Queensland Government has made a strong commitment to growing environment tourism in regions such as Mackay.

“With this funding we are extending this commitment by identifying sustainable tourism development opportunities surrounding one of the region’s most beautiful natural assets, the Eungella National Park.

“The funding will also start the ball rolling on establishing a stronger local indigenous tourism experience and employment opportunities within the South Sea Islander community.

“Mackay continues to grow in popularity with nights spent by international tourists in the region increasing by 11 percent over the past year.

“The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring this growth continues through ongoing tourism development opportunities,” he said.

Ms Boyle said the grant was part of a $1 million funding boost to assist regional tourism organisations to implement the Bligh Government’s ten-year, $48 million Queensland Tourism Strategy.

“The Queensland Tourism Strategy is a key Government promise to secure the economic, environmental and social sustainability of the State’s tourism industry,” she said.

“I congratulate Mackay Tourism on preparing a funding submission to strengthen some of the region’s most important local tourism assets.”

For more information on the Queensland Tourism Strategy visit www.qldtourismstrategy.com.au

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