Wetlands Ecotourism project opens new opportunities for Fleurieu region

The recent opening of the Gemtree Wetlands Ecotourism Walking Trail project will add to the unique tourism attractions of South Australia's Fleurieu region and boost local tourism businesses, according to Federal Member for Kingston, Amanda Rishworth MP.

The new attraction at McLaren Flat, which received funding of $51,360 from the Australian Government's TQUAL Grants program for new facilities, includes better signage, maps and a sheltered picnic area.

Rishworth explained "improving the quality of our local attractions brings even more visitors to this region ï¾ and that's important for the 1,700 businesses in the Fleurieu region that depend on tourism.

"In a typical year, visitors spend around $300 million in this region."

The Minister Assisting on Tourism, Senator Nick Sherry, said investing in tourism is about investing in the economic fabric of local communities, adding "the Australian Government is proud to have played its part in the development of the Gemtree wetlands eco-trail.

"The TQUAL Grants program helps regional tourism industries to be more innovative and competitive.

"In the latest round of funded projects announced a couple of months ago, the Australian Government committed nearly $8.5 million to 117 projects right across Australia."

It is anticipated that the next round of funding for TQUAL Grants - Tourism Quality Projects will be open for applications in early 2012.

For more information go to www.ret.gov.au/tqual

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