Infrastructure Fund launched for Queensland outback tourism

Having invested in the rebuilding of the original Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton after it was destroyed by fire in 2015 and having contributed $2.2 million for the expansion and refurbishment of the Australian Workers Heritage Centre in Barcaldine, the Queensland Government has launched a $12.2 million fund to support the development of outback tourism infrastructure.

Explaining that the fund will back Queensland’s emerging outback tourism sector, Queensland Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones recently advised “as the most decentralised state in the nation, Queensland’s regional towns have a rich history and hospitality that will capture a travellers’ hearts.

“That’s why the (Queensland) Government made a $12.2 million commitment during the budget to develop outback tourism infrastructure.

“Senior public servants are scoping out key locations and we’ve started discussions with local stakeholders about how best to grow the outback’s promising tourism industry.”

Minister Jones said the outback was one of the fastest growing tourism markets in Queensland and deserved its fair share of funding. In the three years ending March 2018 outback domestic visitor spending had grown 11% to $617.3 million.

Minister Jones added “the latest research shows that the next generation of tourists are looking for unique experiences - the outback offers these experiences in spades.

“Our investment is about ensuring the outback has the tourism infrastructure it needs to continue to attract more visitors who stay longer and spend more in Queensland.

“The Government’s recent investment helped to rebuild the original Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton after it was destroyed by fire in 2015.”

Minister Jones concluded “with great events like the Birdsville Races, Mount Isa Mines Rotary Rodeo and Winton’s Way Out West Festival the call of the outback is alive and well.”

Image: Winton's rebuilt Waltzing Matilda Centre