Funding Boosts Central Qld's tourist facilities
Posted by editor (editor) on Jan 14 2010
2010 >>

A funding boost to tourist facilities will help attract more visitors to Central Queensland.

Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor today announced a total of $140, 410 for three projects designed to improve the visitor experience in the region as part of the State Government’s $1.8 million Minor Tourism Infrastructure Grants Program.

“Ranging from new informative signage to upgraded facilities the projects will make visitors to this great region of Queensland more comfortable and more relaxed – hopefully it will encourage them to spend more time enjoying what it has to offer,” he said.

“And that’s got to be good news for local traders.”

The projects are:

• $49,743 to construct and install a stairway and viewing platform to enable visitors to see dinosaur footprints at Fireclay Caverns, Mount Morgan
• $45,667 to upgrade amenities and facilities at the Queensland Heritage Park Complex at Biloela
• $45,000 to provide new information panels at the Dululu Rest Area to highlight the history, tourist attractions and points of interest in the Mount Morgan region.

Mr Lawlor said the infrastructure grants program was part of the State Government’s commitment to boosting Queensland’s drive tourism market.

“The drive tourism market is worth more than $4 billion to Queensland and accounts for around 70 per cent of the overnight leisure market,” he said.

“Considering the size of our State, existing facilities and infrastructure can be many kilometres apart and that’s something we can improve on.

“That’s why these grant programs are targeting regions popular for driving holidays and special interest experiences.

“These sorts of improvements can make a very positive impact on the drive tourism market and further enhance Queensland’s reputation with travellers.

“It’s all about making the experience more comfortable for motoring tourists.”

Mr Lawlor said this year’s funding program from the Department of Employment, Economic Development and Innovation would support a range of excellent projects throughout regional Queensland.

“These projects will be located within shires neighbouring the Matilda Highway, Pacific Coast Touring Route and the Country Way, Overlander’s Way, Savannah Way and Outback Way,” he said.

The Minor Tourism Infrastructure Grants Program is part of the Bligh Government's 2009 election commitment for a three-year tourism action plan.

$37.8m has been committed over three years to boost the State's tourism industry - with $1.8m allocated to improving roadside infrastructure.

“This latest funding follows on from the success of last year’s Minor Tourism Infrastructure Grants Scheme which provided more than $250,000 for 11 projects in North West Queensland,” Mr Lawlor said.

“I look forward to announcing the opening of the 2010-2011 round of grants in March 2010. The new routes that will be funded will further enhance the drive experience in this great State.”

Last changed: Jan 14 2010 at 9:09 AM