Queensland Government to merge events and tourism agencies

The Queensland Government has announced plans to merge state agencies Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland to "reinvigorate Queensland's approach to attracting visitors to the State."

Announcing the move, Queensland Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, Jann Stuckey (pictured) said the merger would provide a more coordinated and strategic approach to attracting visitors to Queensland, stating "merging Tourism Queensland and Events

Queensland into one entity will assist in the delivery of outcomes from the DestinationQ Forum, held in Cairns in June.

"Tourism and events are intrinsically linked so the formation of one streamlined entity, with one specific purpose and one very focussed approach makes good sense."

Introducing said legislation to merge the two agencies in the Queensland Parliament, Minister Stuckey added "establishing Tourism and Events Queensland will ensure all efforts to attract visitors and events are focussed on achieving the best results and the best value for money for Queensland taxpayers.

"We promised to put in place policies and processes that would revitalise the industry and we'll continue to work with owners, operators and Regional Tourism Organisations to look at what we can do to enhance the industry." Chair of Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland, Stephen Gregg, said the merger will see one Board and all staff working towards a common goal, adding "a common Board will ensure directors are across both tourism and event operations and be well placed to ensure collaboration and good governance occurs.

"As one entity, marketing and visitation opportunities will be optimised and any duplication removed."

The Queensland Government is calling on industry representatives and the public to have their say on a new draft Queensland Drive Tourism Strategy which aims to encourage more travellers to take a driving holiday in Queensland.

Feedback is sought in the following areas:

• Marketing and promotion
• Signage
• Infrastructure
• Accommodation and facilities
• Meeting consumer needs
• Road quality, maintenance and safety
• Visitor information and technology applications.

Consultation closes on Wednesday 28th November 2012.

To have your say on the draft strategy, visit http://dtesb.qld.gov.au/tourism-industry/queensland-drive-tourism-strategy

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