Bundaberg residents say tourism assisted recovery

New research has shown that tourism has not only boosted the Bundaberg economy, but played an important role in the social recovery of the local community after last year's devastating flood.

Queensland Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, Jann Stuckey said the results of the survey further illustrated the social impact of tourism on local communities across Queensland.

Minister Stuckey explained "the research has provided valuable insight into Queenslanders perceptions about tourism and the importance of this industry to our economy and wellbeing of our communities.

"93% of Bundaberg residents surveyed believe that tourism played a crucial role in their local economy.

"A further 67% of Bundaberg residents surveyed liked the way tourism was developing in the region and 72% felt tourism had a positive impact on the local community.

"Tourism and Events Queensland will continue to work in consultation with a range of industry stakeholders, including regional tourism organisations and operators, to provide direction for sustainable tourism development in Bundaberg."

Member for Burnett, Stephen Bennett MP said the role that tourism has played to the local community was indisputable, adding "as we move to 12 months on from the devastating floods, the return of visitors has helped this community to recover.

"The Bundaberg tourism industry is world-class and I encourage everyone to continue to visit this great destination."

Bundaberg North Burnett Tourism General Manager Rick Matkowski welcomed the research, stating "what is most gratifying is that, more than all other Queenslanders, Bundaberg locals rated the positive effect of tourism on their local community highly.

"This research demonstrates that the local community really values the visitor and the real benefits they bring to our local economy.

"The region experienced a rough start to last year with Cyclone Oswald so it is has been great to see that domestic holiday visitation to Bundaberg increased 3% in the year to September 2013."

Minister Stuckey said the research provided an insight into the value of tourism to local communities.

"Tourism and Events Queensland will continue to work in consultation with a range of industry stakeholders, including regional tourism organisations and operators, to provide direction for sustainable tourism development in Bundaberg."

However, plans for a new aquatic facility in the town appear to have been shelved with Bundaberg Regional Council putting the concept on the backburner after total costs for construction rang up to $25 million with running costs forecast to create a $200,000-$400,000 loss annually.

The Regional Aquatic Centre proposed was to feature a lagoon pool along with a 50 metre competition swimming pool, a spectator stand with 400 seats, heated indoor 25 metre lap pool and a fitness centre.

A Council feasibility study had highlighted the ageing condition of existing pools, forecast population growth of the region and community desires for water play infrastructure.

Community demand for a new aquatic facility has been high on the community's agenda for some time with Facebook group 'Waterpark for Bundaberg/Bargara' membership rising to nearly 3000 members.

The 2013 Social Indicators research was conducted with more than 3,850 Queensland participants through an online survey. The Queensland Social Indicators 2013 factsheets are available online at www.te.queensland.com/research

3rd April 2013 - MAJOR BOOST FOR FLOOD AFFECTED SPORTING CLUBS

30th January 2013 - SUNSHINE COAST TOURISM BACK IN BUSINESS