Tourism can start the road to recovery
The tourism industry has welcomed the weekend's announcements by Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk about the next stage of eased COVID-19 restrictions for the state.
QTIC Chief Executive Daniel Gschwind said, “The announcement will bring enormous relief for tourism operators right across the state who have been waiting desperately for some good news.
“Bringing forward the opening of travel for the whole state and the relaxation of allowable numbers in hospitality venues was the right decision by the Premier.
“It will allow tourism businesses to confidently start the long road to recovery with a prospect of rescuing at least part of the winter season”.
Travel will be allowed throughout the state from Monday 1 June and maximum customer numbers in venues will be significantly increased.
“With all of Queensland’s destinations accessible again, we hope bookings will stream in from Queenslanders eager to get out of the confines of their homes. The school holidays will now offer a real opportunity for tourism operators to get their businesses going again,” said Mr Gschwind.
State borders will remain closed for the immediate future with the Premier expected to review this status in the coming weeks.
Mr Gschwind continued, “This has been a devastating time for the tourism economy and the communities that depend on it. We are relieved that successful health management has now brought about an accelerated timetable for the easing of restrictions. Now we are just hoping that the opening of state borders will not be far behind”.
QTIC in collaboration with industry partners and health professionals is providing health guidelines and tailored checklists for tourism operators to offer COVID-safe tourism and hospitality services for both customers and workers.
Mr Gschwind said tourism operators were committed to delivering best practice, not just in quality experiences but also when it comes to the health and well-being of customers.
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