Cash splash to help tourism operators bounce back from coronavirus lockdown

MORE than a dozen local tourism businesses throughout the Territory have received grants totalling nearly $500,000 as part of the Territory Government’s plan to help operators bounce back after the coronavirus lockdown

Tourism Minister Lauren Moss says the government’s cash splash will help tourism operators bounce back after coronavirus. Picture: Justin Kennedy

MORE than a dozen local tourism businesses throughout the Territory have received grants totalling nearly $500,000 as part of the Territory Government’s plan to help operators bounce back after the coronavirus lockdown.

The 17 recipients will share in a total of $498,052.50 for projects in the Nhulunbuy, Darwin, Katherine, Tennant Creek and Alice Springs regions.

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The cash is aimed at supporting the Territory’s tourism operators to bounce back from the impacts of the Australian bushfires and coronavirus pandemic.

Under the deal, the applicants will be required to provide a matching co-contribution and ensure projects are completed by the end of the year.

Regional projects funded under the program include a new campground kitchen for the Gove Boat Club’s Manyimi campground and a new bakery at the Mataranka Roadhouse which will service local markets in the area.

Cullen Bay business Mini Melts NT has also received funding to develop Cheekies Party Bike, a multi-passenger, human-powered, electric battery assisted bicycle for up to 15 people to enjoy refreshments on as they tour the sites of Darwin.

Further south, Tennant Creek’s Top of Town Cafe will develop an outdoor and evening dining/function area and entertainment space while Alice Springs Brewing Company will establish a new brewing area to accommodate tours for visitors.

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Tourism Minister Lauren Moss said the government was “supporting local business through the unprecedented situation we are currently facing”.

“With the travel restrictions as they stand and the impact they are having on our tourism industry, it’s more important than ever for the Territory to develop new visitor experiences that diversify the tourism offering in the region, while providing much needed support,” she said.

“Our $2 million Immediate Tourism Resilience Plan is a multifaceted approach that aims to minimise the impact to NT operators and the visitor economy.

“Initiatives like the New Visitor Experience Program will help our tourism operators to bounce back and be ready to welcome both Territorians and visitors once they are able to.”