REACH FOR THE STARS
New taskforce targets VIPs to boost tourism ratings
GLOBAL celebrities and other “superrich” visitors will be targeted under a new plan to boost the Far North’s VIP tourism credentials.
A fledgling taskforce, comprising several stakeholder groups, aims to create a strategy for promoting the region to corporate jet-loving “high-rollers”.
“We want to drive the conversation – what do we need to attract these people?” said Cairns Chamber of Commerce president Nick Loukas. “They might come here on corporate jets, needing this and that, but can we supply them with what they want?”
It is understood the chamber, tourism experts and representatives from the aviation sector are among the taskforce’s members.
Mr Loukas said an initial meeting had already been held.
While a niche market, the “VIP” sector is seen as a potential money-spinner for the Far Northern tourism economy.
In years gone by the region has welcomed political power couple Bill and Hillary Clinton, musicians Ed Sheeran, Mick Jagger and Pink and Hollywood stars such as Matthew McConaughey. CONTINUED PAGE 4
“We used to get much higher-yield visitors 20-30 years ago before the pilots’ strike,” he said.
“And it’s not just celebrities. Look at the growing upperclass in China and the amount of money they’ve got.
“Not many places have an international airport so close to World Heritage natural assets.”
It comes amid a new wave of investment in Far North accommodation, most notably Brussels-based billionaire Ghassan Aboud’s trio of Cairns CBD luxury hotel developments.
Other “prestige” sectors, such as the local superyacht industry, are also enjoying a purple patch.
Super Yacht Group Great Barrier Reef recently returned from another successful trip to the glamorous Monaco Yacht Show.
Cairns Aviation Skills Centre business manager Chris Pigott said VIP tourism was a “great opportunity” for the region.
“Cairns is not seen as a VIP destination as such,” Mr Pigott said.
“It’s a market we’re probably missing out on … we need to expand.
“It’s only early days, but there’s a lot of heavy players in town who are behind this.”
Mr Pigott said a special document – aiming to entice the “super rich” to visit Cairns – could be taken to various VIP events around the world.
It comes after music legend Sir Elton John jetted in to Cairns for a one-off show at Cazalys on September 30.