Queensland 'bush tourism' given financial boost to grow regional visitation

The Queensland Government has announced the funding of 57 projects around the state via a $10 million tourism budget boost, under the 'Building Bush Tourism' initiative.

The Fund delivers grants of $50,000 to $200,000 for tourism operators, not-for-profit organisations and local councils to create new or enhanced infrastructure or deliver community and cultural experiences that improve local lifestyles while also driving visitation.

It's estimated the 57 projects generate 234 jobs during planning and construction and 229 ongoing operational jobs.

The upgraded and additional tourism infrastructure is tipped to attract an additional 298,509 visitors per year, increasing overnight visitor expenditure by more than $80 million per annum.

Project locations:

• Tropical North Queensland: $2.265 million for 13 projects

• Outback Queensland: $3.01 million for 18 projects

• Southern Queensland: $2.72 million for 17 projects.

Another nine projects received funding support in the Bundaberg, Capricornia, Fraser Coast, Gladstone and Mackay regions, while four Indigenous organisations and an Aboriginal Shire Council were also among the successful grant recipients.

Queensland Premier Steven Miles noted "I know that tourism is the lifeblood of a large number of Queensland communities, and I want to do whatever I can to help them thrive.

"Tourism employs one in 12 people in Queensland and that number is even higher in regional Queensland.

"My first budget as Premier is investing in projects from Cape York to Ballandean, Kuranda to Quilpie, ensuring that our hard-working regional tourism operators can continue to offer first class experiences to visitors from across Australia and the world."

QLD Minister for Tourism Michael Healy added "we want to encourage as many people as possible to experience the wonders of Outback Queensland.

"From the dusty Outback to the lush Daintree, I'm looking forward to seeing the 57 Building Bush Tourism projects funded by our Government emerge on Queensland's regional tourism landscape.

"Visitors to regional Queensland will enjoy new and enhanced tourism infrastructure and experiences as part of the $10 million Building Bush Tourism Fund."

Image. The Big Rig in Roma