Government delivers top-up for Queensland wine tourism

The Palaszczuk Government is backing an international wine tourism campaign, with Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones today announcing $220,000 in funding for the Queensland Wine Industry Association.

Ms Jones said the government recognised the wine industry’s big contribution in supporting Queensland’s growing tourism sector.

“The latest visitor data clearly shows us more and more tourists are looking for unique experiences,” she said.

“We have a fast growing wine industry with great potential to lure more visitors to our state who are keen to experience Queensland’s stand-out foods and beverages.

“That’s why we’re prepared to invest $220,000 to support the Queensland Wine Industry Association’s pace-setting campaign to showcase the state’s award-winning wines to international visitors,” Ms Jones said.

The funding will be provided to the Queensland Wine Industry Association, should the association be successful with its bid for matching federal funding.

The Queensland Wine Industry Association reports the history of the industry dates back to the 1860’s – and like all good wines it has developed with age.

With more than over 1300 hectares of vines and a new generation of talented people guiding production, the creation of quality Queensland wines has had wide acceptance nationally and internationally. 

Ms Jones said the grant would help Queensland wineries, the majority of which are family-owned businesses, to promote their ‘cellar door’ experiences.

“The Palaszczuk Government is committed to growing our tourism industry – this means luring more visitors who stay in Queensland for longer and spend more.

“That’s why it makes sense for us to support this project to encourage visitors to experience higher value food and beverage opportunities, to stay longer and travel further.”

Ms Jones said by providing a matching $220,000 and a letter of support from the Queensland Government, the QWIA will be able to apply to the Australian Government for matched funding from the federal government to further develop wine tourism opportunities in Queensland.

“The Queensland Government’s cash commitment will help leverage national funding for this important initiative,” she said.

Sirromet Wines General Manager Rod Hill said the government’s support would help to create jobs for Queenslanders.

“It is really good to see the Queensland Government investing in the Wine  Tourism industry. It is a reflection of the confidence that they have in our industry,” he said.

“This investment will grow Queensland wine exposure see more visitors to our wine centres, increased wine sales and importantly grow jobs and training opportunities for our wine regions.”

Queensland Wine Industry Association secretary Arwen McGregor said the Queensland wine industry was worth $50 million.

“This is a very important step provided by the Queensland Government to enable growth and spotlight Queensland Wines,” she said.

“The faith that the Queensland Government has shown by supporting our industry will allow Queensland to develop to be on par with the rest of Australia’s wine tourism.”

The QWIA has been working with Wine Australia and its independent assessment panel to review and refine their submission. Applications close on 3 August 2018.

The International Wine Tourism State Grants program is part of the Australian Government’s $50 million Export and Regional Wine Support Package.

The State Grants program is being delivered by Wine Australia for wine producing sales and is a restricted, non-competitive grant.

Wine Australia identified the QWIA as the eligible applicant for Queensland and QWIA can apply for up to $500 000 (exclusive GST) in matched funding from Wine Australia.

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