Golden Age: Tourism Minister Kate Jones says it make sense to host an annual whale watching festival on the Gold Coast

The Gold Coast’s tourism industry can grow on the back of taking advantage of our natural resources, writes Tourism Minister Kate Jones, who says the city offers one of the world’s best whale watching experiences.

Tourism Industry Minister Kate Jones has backed calls to have an annual whale watching festival on the Gold Coast.

THE Gold Coast offers one of the world’s best whale watching experiences.

These beautiful creatures naturally spend plenty of time off our coastline while migrating — a drawcard for thousands of visitors every year.

If we want our tourism industry to continue to grow, we must make the most of our natural advantages.

Tourism and Events Queensland chair Brett Godfrey has been in talks with Destination Gold Coast about more eco-tourism experiences.

The latest industry research tells us today’s tourists are looking for unique experiences. They want to experience something they can’t get anywhere else.

That’s why it makes sense for the tourism industry to get behind an annual festival to celebrate the whale watching season on the Gold Coast.

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Tourism and Events Queensland chair Brett Godfrey has begun conversations with Destination Gold Coast about new eco-tourism opportunities in the region. It’s part of our focus in this term of government to see more quality eco-tourism experiences created in Queensland.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones says the Gold Coast needs to continue its momentum following the Commonwealth Games. Picture Glenn Hampson

I’m committed to working with local operators and Assistant Tourism Industry Development Minister Meaghan Scanlon to deliver new experiences on the Coast.

We also know how valuable events are when it comes to luring visitors who stay longer and spend more on the Gold Coast. For every dollar invested in major events, the local tourism industry gets $10 in return.

Whales at play off Coast

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That’s what our $36 million investment in major events is all about — partnering with locals to deliver events that help to grow our tourism economy.

The Gold Coast’s tourism industry is thriving following the Commonwealth Games and we’re working hard to ensure the city continues to benefit from this event in years to come.