LNP plan to put up ‘do not enter’ signs on Fraser Island
The LNP’s idea to put up ‘do not enter’ signs on Fraser Island is badly timed and poorly thought out, according to Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor.
(PressZoom) - The LNP’s idea to put up ‘do not enter’ signs on Fraser Island is badly timed and poorly thought out, according to Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor.
In their latest half-hearted attempt at policy, the Shadow spokesperson for Climate Change and Sustainability has suggested ‘reviewing’ visitor numbers to the island.
“This is code for capping visitor numbers,” Mr Lawlor said.
The LNP report then goes on to say on page seven:
“Placing a moratorium on any increase in bednights on the island ...would be essential”.
Mr Lawlor joined with tourism operators on the island to condemn the report.
“Local tourism operators have said visitor numbers are down already. It’s beyond belief that the LNP want to sink the boot in when they’re already down,” he said.
“While the Bligh Government is doing all it can to support the tourism industry and tourism jobs, the LNP want to give it another kick.”
In July, Tourism Queensland launched a $330,000 marketing campaign focused on promoting whale watching on the Fraser Coast; coordinated in partnership with Fraser Coast South Burnett Tourism and 26 local tourism operators.
The campaign objective was to promote the Fraser Coast as Queensland’s signature whale watching destination.
Mr Lawlor said the Bligh Government had also committed an additional $36 million statewide over three years to steer the tourism industry through the Global Financial Crisis.
Climate Change and Sustainability Minister Kate Jones dismissed the report as a compilation of other people’s ideas, not a policy.
“After 12 months, Mr Elmes has failed to deliver anything new but instead is repeating his call for people to feed dingoes,” Ms Jones said.
“Feeding dingoes has been rejected by respected conservation groups the Fraser Island Defenders Organisation, National Parks Association Queensland and the Wilderness Society.
“This shows just how out-of-touch the LNP are.
“Meanwhile, this government works with local organisations, scientific experts and the tourism industry to deliver real improvements to safety and to protect Fraser’s World Heritage values.
Frankly, Mr Elmes has shown he has no ability or interest in providing real alternatives.”
Media contact:
Tourism Minister 3225 1005
Climate Change and Sustainability Minister 3239 0824
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