Queenslanders to be Welcomed Back to Mackay
Mackay Tourism welcomes today’s announcement by the Queensland Government that permits intra-state travel and overnight stays for Queenslanders. In what will prove a significant economic and morale boost to tourism operators across The Mackay Region, stage two of Queensland's roadmap to easing restrictions will be introduced from midday tomorrow, 1 June.
This decision comes following a strong advocacy campaign run in partnership between Mackay Tourism, Tourism Whitsundays, Townsville Enterprise, Tourism Tropical North Queensland, and the Outback Queensland Tourism Association.
The five Regional Tourism Organisations collectively represent the interests of 1,350 tourism members who, following extensive consultation, called for immediate action to restart the tourism and hospitality industry in Queensland.
Amongst the changes being introduced from midday tomorrow, the following will be permitted;
- Unlimited travel and overnight stays for Queenslanders across all of Queensland (no km limit).
- Recreational travel, camping and accommodation including caravan parks.
- Tourism experiences for 20 people - more if following the approved Industry COVID Safe Plan.
- Dining in or seated drinks in restaurants, cafes, pubs, registered or licensed clubs, RSL Clubs, hotels and casinos (no gaming) for up to 20 patrons per room or defined area.
Mackay Tourism Chief Executive Officer Tas Webber congratulated the Queensland Government on its decision.
“Today’s announcement from the Queensland Government is the clearest sign yet of a light at the end of the tunnel, and that tourism can begin to slowly rebuild from COVID-19,” he said
Mr Webber further added, “I, along with my fellow North Queensland tourism colleagues, met with the Premier on Wednesday and I applaud her for today’s decision that will provide a much-needed boost to our region’s tourism industry and economy.”
Mr Webber said Mackay Tourism had strategies already in place to capitalise on today’s announcement
“Intra-state travel has always been the leading source market for visitation to Mackay. With Queenslanders now permitted to travel intra-state, Mackay Tourism and our Tourism Whitsundays partners will be launching several exciting marketing campaigns to inspire our fellow Queenslanders to take this opportunity to experience all that the beautiful Mackay and Whitsunday Regions have to offer.”
Further details on the introduction of stage two’s roadmap to easing restrictions are available from the Queensland Government website.
ENDS
Contact:
Daniel Brown - Communications Officer
0448 994 180
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Sunday, 31 May 2020