Queensland Government brings forward launch of $1 million Cairns tourism package
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Queensland Government brings forward launch of $1 million Cairns tourism package
The Queensland Government has decided to fast-track a $1 million package of Cairns tourism campaigns to support businesses suffering as a result of the recent coronavirus outbreak.
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DepositphotosEsplanade fish sculptures in Cairns.
Cairns is set to be showcased to the UK and US markets from this month after the Queensland Government announced it would bring forward the launch of a $1 million package to assist operators impacted by the spread of coronavirus.
Two campaigns targeting the US market will commence within the next week, while a Tropical North Queensland-specific marketing drive aimed at UK travellers who are planning a trip to Queensland is also set to start in February.
Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said the campaigns were about driving visitors and stimulating economic recovery at a time when it was "badly needed".
“Cairns tourism operators need all the help they can get at the moment,” she said.
“Far North Queensland will be one of the regions hit the hardest by coronavirus.
"That’s why we’re investing millions of dollars in marketing to bring more American and British tourists to Cairns."
The first dedicated drive is designed to promote scuba diving holidays on the Great Barrier Reef, while a second campaign, launching next Monday, aims to generate bookings that will bring more than $1.25 million in overnight visitor expenditure in the TNQ region.
In the UK, a TNQ-specific campaign will target travellers already planning a Queensland holiday to generate accommodation and tour bookings for TNQ operators, which the government belives will "maximise economic returns for the local tourism industry".
Member for Cairns Michael Healy said the campaigns would provide relief to Far North Queensland tourism operators doing it tough.
“Cairns is an established and recognised destination, well-known for having world class experiences in these markets," he said.
"These campaigns will make sure we’re putting our best foot forward, to generate bookings in the lead-up to Easter.
“Tourism means jobs for Cairns. We want to keep these jobs in Cairns and support tourism businesses to prosper in Far North Queensland.
The announcement comes also comes after the Palaszczuk Government last week actioned a $2 million tourism campaign to deliver an immediate shot-in-the-arm for the industry following the emergence of the coronavirus threat.
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