Tourism operators lash Minister Jones over budget threat to events

GOLD Coast tourism operators have lashed out at Tourism Minister Kate Jones for her warnings over possible cuts to future events and marketing funding.

Surf teacher, Chris Maley from Learn to Surf in Paradise with client Shae-Yvonne De La Cruz, 18, from Brisbane, learning to surf at the Spit. For a story about potential funding cuts to tourism. Picture: JERAD WILLIAMS

GOLD Coast tourism operators have lashed out at Tourism Minister Kate Jones for her warnings over possible cuts to future events and marketing funding.

Surf in Paradise instructor Chris Maley, 42, said Ms Jones’ comments about funding cuts were “bizarre” and “damaging” at a time when the tourism sector had worked hard to get back on to its feet.

“Winter is hard for us and you would expect the tourism minister to be selling the Gold Coast to the world,” he said.

GC600 AMONG EVENTS AT RISK

Ms Jones at the weekend said “regional tourism operators” were at risk of being harmed by possible funding cuts when the state’s budget was handed down next month.

It is understood the State Government is trying to plug a $188 million shortfall in the tourism budget.

Tourism Minister Kate Jones.

Ms Jones blamed the previous government and her own Cabinet for casting doubt over the future of the Gold Coast 600 motor race, the Australian University Games and Australian Ladies Masters.

She confirmed the events were still at risk of being slashed next month.

“Funding decisions will be made as part of the budget process in due course and, despite this black hole left by the LNP, I will continue to lobby my Cabinet colleagues to boost tourism funding that will secure major events on the Gold Coast for years to come,” she said in a statement to the Bulletin.

Mayor Tom Tate said Ms Jones had given him assurances the events were not in danger.

“I am not worried at all,” he said.

“I spoke to Minister Jones and she gave me assurances and everything I have asked for from this Government has come true, so I will take her on her word.’’