Winter aids tourism recovery
WINTER is as good a time as any for some rest and relaxation, and this year a local trip would give a much-needed boost to the tourism sector, according to University of Southern Queensland tourism lecturer Frances Cassidy.
Ms Cassidy has implored residents to think local for their next family excursion, as Queensland tourism slowly kickstarts after coronavirus.
“At the moment there has been a huge downturn in tourism and because we have to stay in our state, it’s something we have to get up and running first,” Ms Cassidy said.
“Lots of people have lost their jobs in the tourism sector; airlines, cruise ships, people working in restaurants.
“The families have been hit very hard.
“It doesn’t matter that it’s winter - there is so much to see and do, how long has it been since you’ve been to your local tourism sites?”
Ms Cassidy said the winter season usually brought lots of tourism to south-east Queensland.
“I would be looking for something cozy, maybe a bed and breakfast,” she said.
“Or maybe a winery, there are some lovely wineries in this region.”
She said outdoor excursions would also be popular this year.
“Buy your sandwiches and coffee and go on a walk somewhere and have a picnic,” she said.
“Look at nature, how many times do we take a breath and see the beauty around us?
“Camping and fishing are other options.”
Ms Cassidy said she expected tourism to be back to half of what it was by September.
“It’s going to take some time to recover.
“It’s a bit of a wheel - as soon as it picks up it will gain momentum,” she said.
“But even just filling up your car with petrol or going to get a coffee in a smaller town it’s all money they didn’t have before you arrived.
“We need to get the money circulating in the state.” To find more great ideas on what you can do in the local area this winter, visit visitdarlingdowns.com.au.