Snorkel operator hits out at ‘big disadvantage’
PAUL Crocombe, owner of Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive, has backed a call to open North Queensland.
Mr Crocombe yesterday joined with other business leaders, Townsville Enterprise CEO Patricia O’callaghan, Townsville Enterprise director of tourism and events Lisa Woolfe, FG Hospitality managing director Jamie Fitzpatrick and The Ville Resort-casino CEO Michael Jones on The Strand to call for immediate help from the premier.
He said current relaxations of the government-enforced COVID-19 domestic travel lockdown only benefited southeast Queensland.
The 150km limit allowed Brisbane people to travel to the Gold and Sunshine Coasts but did not allow Townsville residents to travel to their nearest major centre, Mackay or Cairns.
“Even when we get to stage two we still can’t go from Townsville to Cairns or Mackay,” Mr Crocombe said.
“It’s a big disadvantage compared to the southeast corner.
“I personally believe North Queenslanders should be linked to the Outback – it would make a lot of sense.
“If we have to wait to get stage three measures, a lot more businesses will have gone under.”
Normally at this time of year the dive business manager would be busy taking international and interstate tourists to the outer Reef.
Since COVID-19, his business has ground to a halt.
“We have had to shut down and are spending money doing maintenance,” Mr Crocombe said.
“We have lost experienced staff due to the uncertainty.”
He said to stay afloat the company would now have to rely on local support.