Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) has welcomed increased destination funding from Cairns Regional Council.
Cairns Mayor Bob Manning announced TTNQ’s funding would be boosted by $400,000 to $3.4 million as part of the Council’s 2018-2019 Budget.
TTNQ Chief Executive Officer Pip Close said tourism was the backbone of the regional economy with one in six Cairns jobs depending on the sector.
“This increase in funding recognises the vital role tourism can play in the economic future of our city,” she said.
“It will amplify efforts in our key markets to grow visitation and increase expenditure to $3.5 billion by 2020.
“We will use it towards supporting airline attraction to Cairns and for new market opportunities.
“Our city is currently undergoing a renaissance with renewed investment in tourism infrastructure and the first of three new hotels to open later this year.
“We need to continue to create demand for our destination to support this infrastructure and encourage further investment to bring more jobs to our region.
“TTNQ also welcomes the additional $1.1 million from Council to support and develop major sporting and significant cultural events.
“These events are critical to bringing year-round visitation to the region and giving people a reason to visit no matter what the weather or the economic climate.
“Existing events like the Cairns Adventure Festival and Ironman have proven their economic worth to the city, while new events like Targa Great Barrier Reef and the international cycling events Reef to Reef 2018 and 2019 will add yet another dimension to our events calendar.
“Supporting the Australian Dolphins training camp and the Para Pan Pacific Championships will further cement our reputation as an international sports host and ideal destination for acclimatisation training.
“Cairns Regional Council is to be congratulated on their investment in an industry that supports many individuals and businesses in our community.”
ENDS
For more information, contact:
Communications Consultant Liz Inglis
M: 0419 643 494 | E: [email protected]