30 October 2021
Published 15 May 2020
Moreton Bay Regional Council is backing the tourism and events sector to help drive a post-coronavirus economic recovery.
In partnership with Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism (MBRIT), a supercharged events program and new destination campaign will be rolled out as soon as social distancing restrictions are lifted.
“Through our partnership with MBRIT we will launch a $240,000 destination campaign to support those businesses hit hardest by COVID-related closures, our local tourism, retail, and hospitality businesses,” Mayor Flannery said.
“COVID-19 has created uncharted territory for many businesses, so MBRIT will be investing $50,000 to continue its free professional development for local businesses through its Business Moreton Bay Program.
“In recent months we’ve also seen the cancellation of many of South East Queensland’s favourite events including the upcoming Redcliffe Kite Festival.
“That’s why we’ll be working with MBRIT to supercharge our region’s major events program so they will be able to cater for an influx of residents and visitors, as soon as we can safely deliver these events.
“This includes events like Moreton Kids Festival at Strathpine, Australia Day at Bribie Island, The Hills Festival, Redcliffe Kite Fest and Lunar New Year at Caboolture.
“It will give SEQ families additional reasons to make Moreton Bay top of their travel lists – which is great news for local business.”
MBRIT CEO Shane Newcombe said the ongoing partnership with Council was key to supporting the economic recovery of the region.
“Tourism is worth more than $1 billion to our economy and drive tourism is the most important component of that,” Mr Newcombe said.
“One of the most immediate and important ways of getting our local economy back on track is to boost tourism visitation into our region.
“Our destination campaign will roll out across metro TV and radio stations, showcasing our region and its attractions to the rest of southeast Queensland.
“I can’t thank Council enough for their ongoing support which is backing local businesses when they need it most.
“Council’s initial $15 million stimulus package has already helped by reducing food licensing costs for businesses, so this $460,000 announcement is another confidence booster.”