AALARA updates members on attractions sector challenges

The Australian Amusement, Leisure and Recreation Association (AALARA) has updated its members and industry stakeholders on the challenges the sector is facing and its ongoing actions in respect of amusement ride safety.

In a communication to members, AALARA President Shane McGrath writes “there is no doubt about it the current challenges we face in our respective operations, as an industry and a society will be one for the history books. These are indeed incredibly difficult times as this health crisis evolves into a global economic and social disruptor that was simply implausible at the start of the year. We understand our members are hurting and have experienced many difficult days dealing with lost business, staffing decisions, property owners, banks, accessing government support payments all while navigating what seems like an overwhelming amount of information.

“AALARA’s initial response called on state and Federal (Government) support for our industry operators and employees however as the issue broadened and following the roll out of national support programs we are focusing on industry specific issues.

“AALARA has called on the Queensland Government to revise the timelines associated with mandatory 10-year major inspections of amusement devices and the safety case associated with Queensland theme parks.  We firmly believe the industry no longer has the resources or capacity to achieve this in the short term and as a result, they are no longer reasonable nor practicable.

“AALARA has ramped up member communications at this time and the open rates and engagement within our emails suggest that members are welcoming the content. If you have any feedback, please pick up the phone or send us an email, as we would love to hear from you.

“We are increasingly hearing from members the challenges faced with insurance renewals and will be working to support members in this regard. We have additional surveys coming up shortly around insurance and the impact COVID19 has had on your business. We would appreciate it if you could find the time to complete the surveys as the results provide us with the critical detail.”

McGrath (pictured) also expressed the Association’s “regret” that its 2020 annual conference had been cancelled, but added “we look forward to welcoming you all to Sea World Resort in 2021.”