QTIC’s COVIDSafe events framework supports getting the ‘show to go on’

Aiming to provide clarity in helping the delivery of events and tourism, the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) has released the Industry Framework for COVIDSafe Events in Queensland, approved by the state’s Chief Health Officer.

Developed by QTIC in collaboration with Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), the Queensland Department of State Development, Tourism and Innovation (DSDTI), Queensland Health, and in consultation with industry stakeholders and the professional health support from Griffith University, the Framework serves as a guide for event organisers for events in the state.

It sets out public health principles and provides strategies to assist event organisers to deliver events in the context of COVID-19.

Introducing the framework, QTIC Chief Executive, Daniel Gschwind stated “events play a crucial role in attracting visitors to destinations and enhancing the value of experiences. This framework maps out how events can be staged in a COVID safe way that will give confidence to attendees and the travelling public.

“(This will help) get the show started again!

“We are very pleased to have been able to work collaboratively with industry and government to find solutions to complex challenges in bringing communities and business back to a vibrant cultural life.”

Queensland Tourism Minister Kate Jones said the Framework is a milestone in the recovery of Queensland’s tourism industry, noting “because Queenslanders have done such a great job fighting COVID-19, we can now focus on our economic recovery.

“Events pump millions of dollars into our economy and support local jobs. This framework is vital to getting our tourism industry firing on all cylinders again.

“With the reopening of our borders next week, we’re working closely with event organisers to reschedule events that will help to generate revenue for local businesses. This is an important part of the (Queensland) Government’s strategy to lead Queensland out of the Coronavirus pandemic.”

Tourism and Events Queensland Chief Executive Leanne Coddington welcomed the approval of an Industry Framework for COVIDSafe Events, adding “events are such a vital part of Queensland’s tourism offering as they drive visitation and generate significant economic benefit for the host destinations.

“Following a really tough year, events will also play a key role in reconnecting friends, families and communities, and in generating community pride.

“Tourism and Events Queensland supports a rich calendar of events promoted through the It’s Live! In Queensland events calendar and we look forward to work with organisers and reactivating that important marketing platform.”

Click here to view the publicly available Industry Framework for Events on the Queensland Government COVID-19 website along with approved Industry COVID Safe Plans, for Event Organisers to access.

Image: The Australian Cross Country Challenge.