Minister commends Capricorn tourism bodies for innovative move

Capricorn tourism organisations are to be commended for planning to combine their resources to strengthen the local industry, Tourism Minister Desley Boyle said today.

Ms Boyle said a merger proposal between the Capricorn Tourism & Development Organisation, Rockhampton Tourist & Business Information, Capricorn Coast Tourist Organisation and Central Highlands Tourist Organisation would benefit the industry exponentially.

“Capricorn’s tourist organisations are really leading the way forward in our State,” she said.

“They are progressive in acknowledging much more can be achieved by combining their resources and they are putting the needs of the industry first.

“Across Queensland we have numerous local tourist organisations and regional tourist organisations – all vying for finite resources.

“They are an important facet to our industry, but like all business operations, we need to ensure that these organisations are run as effectively as possible.

“By pooling resources and working under the one umbrella, destination management will be much more cohesive – presenting a stronger focal point to potential visitors to Queensland.”

Ms Boyle said the recent Queensland Network Review found there were too many layers in the Queensland tourism network and recommended organisations consider combining resources for greater efficiency and effectiveness.

She said it was important to recognise the significant role local tourist organisations and regional tourist organisations play in mobilising regional tourism industry members to work together.

“As we move forward tourism is increasingly competitive and we need to ensure Queensland destinations are well positioned,” she said.

“Given the current global economic climate there has never been a more important time to ensure our operations are streamlined.

“I look forward to working with the new tourism organisation for Capricorn.”

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Media contact: 3224 2007 or 3225 1005

7 November 2008