Melia shows island’s heart
A LOCAL teenager has become the face of a Queensland promotional tourism video.
Melia Hinks, of Magnetic Island, stars in the 90- second video and shares her love of the island, inviting people to visit.
The initiative was produced in joint collaboration between Tourism and Events Queensland ( TEQ) and Townsville Enterprise.
Melia said she had lived on the island with her family her entire life, and never wanted to permanently leave.
“I love all of it … it’s just one massive community, it’s so beautiful, you know most of the people here and it’s just an amazing place to live,” Melia said.
“There’s nowhere else I’d rather live. I may have to move for uni one day when I leave to study but I always see myself coming back. This is where I want to live.”
Melia urged people thinking of travelling to Magnetic Island to just do it.
“Definitely come. It’s an amazing place where you’ll be so relaxed. Check out all of the different activities available – there’s so much to do,” Melia said.
“Enjoy the beauty, what it’s here for.”
TEQ chief executive Leanne Coddington said the video was part of a series being released to inspire travellers to explore Queensland.
“Encountering local stories and understanding destinations from a local perspective adds an element of authenticity to a holiday, and travellers that’s are increasingly looking for those experiences,” Ms Coddington said.
“Melia’s unreserved passion for her home is demonstrated throughout the video, inspiring travellers to explore the beauty of Magnetic Island.”
Townsville Enterprise Director of Tourism and Events Bridget Woods said the natural setting of the video had appeal.
“Travellers these days seek authentic experiences and are relying on travel inspiration told through the eyes of everyday people to form their holiday itineraries,” she said.
“While in our region visitors can discover the raw beauty of the stunning Magnetic Island just like Melia Hinks, as well as experiencing additional natural assets of rainforest and outback all within a one- hour drive of Townsville.”
Melia’s video is being promoted together with a series of destination blogs targeting markets in Brisbane, southeast Queensland, Sydney and Melbourne in a campaign over the next fortnight.