Sunshine Coast on track as nature-based tourism destination
Posted by editor (editor) on Dec 10 2009
2009 >>

The Sunshine Coast’s natural attractions are the focus of two new plans to further develop the region’s tourism industry, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor said today.

Mr Lawlor said the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Nature-based Tourism Plan and the Tracks and Trails Identification Project, both initiatives of Tourism Queensland and the Sunshine Coast Tourism partnership, would develop a variety of local nature-based tourism projects across the region.

“The Sunshine Coast Hinterland Nature-based Tourism Plan acknowledges that the Hinterland is a burgeoning tourism destination within the Sunshine Coast,” Mr Lawlor said.

“The plan determines key nature-based assets and experiences both within and outside protected areas, that could help the Sunshine Coast become as famous for its hinterland as it is for its beaches.

“It provides an overall approach to the development of nature-based tourism, including infrastructure, visitor experiences and access to natural attractions to make sure visitors can have a great experience while ensuring the natural environment is protected.”

Mr Lawlor said the plan advocated the development of four distinct nature-based tourism precincts – Glass House Mountains Family Adventure Precinct; Blackall Range Lifestyle Adventure Precinct; Mary Valley Soft Adventure Precinct and Conondale National Park Nature-based Tourism Precinct.

“Each of these precincts will offer their own unique experiences which will appeal to a whole range of visitors,” he said.

“There are a range of potential projects in each precinct that will involve things such as upgrading walking experiences, recreational trails and developing commercial product.

“Potential projects could include the upgrading of walks at Mount Tibrogargan and Mount Ngungun; improving the scenic lookout and cultural interpretative experience at the Mapleton Falls National Park; the development of mountain-bike riding, horse riding, walking and kayaking trails in the Mary Valley precinct; and guided walks on the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Great Walk.”

Mr Lawlor said the Tracks and Trails Identification Project complemented the Sunshine Coast Hinterland Nature-based Tourism Plan and aimed to help the Sunshine Coast become a leading tourism destination for nature walks.

“The Tracks and Trails Identification Project will involve the development of comprehensive print and online information on regional walks which will help promote the region’s walking credentials to a much wider audience,” he said.

“The region has fantastic national parks and bushland areas and by developing more comprehensive promotional information, the Sunshine Coast has the potential to become a signature Australian walking destination.”

Tourism Queensland Acting CEO Steve McRoberts said the two plans would lay the necessary foundations for the Sunshine Coast to widen its tourism appeal.

“The plans have been identified as opportunities for the region to capitalise on the importance of nature-based tourism and a ‘walking’ trend amongst domestic visitors,” Mr McRoberts said.

“It is therefore critical that the existing infrastructure is reviewed and that a truly cohesive, whole of region marketing approach is developed and delivered.

“Any future development will be in consultation with local stakeholders to ensure it occurs in a sustainable manner which ensures a balance between growing the region’s as a nature-based destination and protecting the natural environment.”

Mr McRoberts said Tourism Queensland and the Sunshine Coast Tourism Partnership would collaborate with a range of government bodies including Queensland Parks and Wildlife, local tourism organisations, community groups and tourism businesses to improve natural resources for visitors.

Last changed: Dec 10 2009 at 10:07 AM