Gold Coast bushfires: State Government pledges $300k to Hinterland tourism campaign

More than $300,000 will be spent to lure tourists and locals back to the Gold Coast Hinterland following the devastating fires which destroyed Binna Burra Lodge.

The Palaszczuk Government is to commit $300,000 for new tourism marketing campaigns to support Gold Coast communities impacted by recent bushfires.

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones in State Parliament today said the money would be divided evenly between Southern Queensland Country Tourism, Visit Sunshine Coast and Brisbane Marketing, which includes the Scenic Rim and Binna Burra.

The damage at Binna Burra. Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

“Tourism is the lifeblood of these areas and a driving force of the Queensland economy. It’s vital that we get the message out that Queensland is ready to welcome visitors and give them a great experience,” Ms Jones said.

“The best way for people to support these communities is to visit. Stay in their hotels, motels and BnBs, eat at their cafes and restaurants and enjoy everything they have to offer.

“With school holidays approaching, there’s absolutely no reason for people to cancel or reschedule their bookings. These campaigns will roll out quickly and target the drive market as well as intrastate and interstate visitors.”

‘PLEASE DON’T ABANDON BINNA BURRA’

Minister Kate Jones. Picture: Annette Dew

Ms Jones said a number of the areas worst affected by the recent bushfires boasted some of Australia’s best tourism experiences.

“The subtropical rainforest of the Scenic Rim, the beautiful beaches of the Sunshine Coast and the rustic charm of Southern Queensland Country are destinations that visitors simply experience,” she said.

“This activity will compliment Tourism and Events Queensland’s major domestic campaign that will be in market in October and November, ensuring that our visitors know Queensland is open for business.

POLICE SUSPECT ARSON IN FIRES WHICH DESTROYED BINNA BURRA

Binna Burra Lodge's Steve Noakes Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

“The Queensland tourism industry is incredibly resilient — as has been shown time and time again — and together we’re committed to ensuring our visitors continue to experience Queensland at its best.”

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk on a visit to Binna Burra on the weekend said the hinterland would “rise from the ashes”, and Ms Jones and State Development Minister Cameron Dick had been tasked with the recovery program.

Mr Dick told the Parliament a taskforce created to help communities rebuild from the fires would ensure, as a priority, displaced staff have access to the support and opportunities they need.

State Minsters say the area will ‘rise from the ashes’ Picture: NIGEL HALLETT

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“That’s why tomorrow my department will host a workers transition session in Beechmont for Binna Burra staff,” Mr Dick said,

Prominent hospitality employers promoting job opportunities would include Accor, the Mantra Group, Peppers, Spicers Retreats, Village Roadshow, Club Training Australia, and nearby O’Reilly’s Retreat, who has also been impacted by the fires.

“Employment agencies will attend the session, as will state and federal agencies who can help with hardship payments, and community support groups such as Red Cross, Lifeline and Uniting Care,” Mr Dick said.

“Our across-government approach to recovery is already making a difference, and we will continue working with Binna Burra to help guide their path towards economic

recovery.”