Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Travel Bonus launches
***THIS VOUCHER CAMPAIGN HAS EXPIRED AND IS NO LONGER RUNNING, PLEASE REFER TO CURRENT MARCH 2024 TROPICAL DOLLARS HERE***
Visitors spending more than $1,000 on their Tropical North Queensland holiday will receive an extra $250 to spend on tours as part of a campaign promoting interstate travel to the destination and supporting the region’s recovery.
The national $2 million ‘Cairns & Great Barrier Reef Travel Bonus’ campaign launches today (September 18), with 8,000 vouchers available for Tropical North Queensland holidays booked through Flight Centre, Viva Holidays or My Queensland.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said now is the time to start planning a well-deserved getaway after what has been a tumultuous 18 months, particularly for New South Wales and Victorian residents.
“It’s clear that interstate travellers are keen to escape to the tropics as soon as borders open. Our retail travel partners are reporting that people are buying ‘hope travel’ – they want something to look forward to and will book if there is flexibility with the booking,” he said.
“Many Australians are discovering just how diverse the experiences are in Tropical North Queensland and this bonus will help them add one more tour to their stay in the country’s most Googled regional holiday destination.
“The destination has the world’s oldest rainforest, the largest and most diverse reef on earth, and Australia’s accessible outback to explore.
“There are many ways to experience these stunning landscapes. You can snorkel with turtles at Fitzroy Island, stand-up paddleboard through the rainforest, or dive with giant potato cod.
“Step back in time with Traditional Owners to learn the stories of their rock art or wander the city’s laneways discovering modern art, bars and restaurants showcasing tropical produce.
“Australians stay an average of five nights in Tropical North Queensland, but quickly realise that is not long enough to experience the many activities that have cemented our reputation as a world-class international destination.”
The Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said: “Australia is making incredible progress towards our COVID-19 vaccination targets that will unlock restrictions on travel and allow people to cross borders for a holiday”.
“Tropical North Queensland can’t wait to welcome back visitors so our tourism workers and businesses can get back do doing what they love and what they do best – which is provide a tourism experience like nowhere else in the world.
“The Morrison Government is supporting tourism jobs and businesses in Tropical North Queensland through this travel voucher program to attract more visitors to the region.”
Federal Leichhardt MP Warren Entsch added: “There is absolutely no doubt that Australians are chomping at the bit to travel again and there is absolutely no better destination than Cairns and Tropical North Queensland.
“Key to this will be reaching the 70-80 per cent national vaccination targets.
“Cairns and Tropical North Queensland is home to the best natural wonders in the nation as well as world-class accommodation, restaurants and tourism experiences. Come check them out for yourself,” Mr Entsch said.
The $250 Travel Bonus can be used until 20 April 2022. For more information go to tropicaltravelbonus.com.
This project received grant funding from the Australian Government under the Recovery for Regional Tourism program, an initiative of the $1billion Covid-19 Relief and Recovery Fund.