The Queensland Party Candidate for Cairns D.J.Hunt has suggested a unique concept to aid recovery to the devastated Far North Queensland and increase tourism.
Mr Hunt said "With the community calling for suggestions to increase overseas visitors and attract Australians to the Far North instead of overseas introducing a volunteer “Barter” type holiday package could be one solution. If airlines, resorts and other operators took part, tourists could be offered discounts on airfares, accommodation, shopping and attractions for performing volunteer work in the recovery efforts with recognized government or volunteer organisations.”
Mr Hunt’s comments came after the Far North economy was rocked by the effects of TC Yasi and calls were made for strategies to attract tourists to the area in order to send out the message that the area was open for business
“One of the reasons we have difficulty competing with overseas destinations is the cost difference. By introducing discounts in return for volunteer work performed would appeal to peoples altruistic traits and they might holiday in the Far North instead of overseas. Australians who would be able to volunteer but could not afford the trip, may be tempted to do so if such a program was available. The tourists could volunteer in clean up or recovery activities one day and go on a tour the next. The more you do the more /discount benefits you get. It injects some money back into the economy, brings volunteers to the area to assist in order to reduce costs so that funds can be spent where they are needed most. ”Mr Hunt said
Mr Hunt stated “It would only take one airline to come on board and the others would follow. Local operators would benefit from tourists and clients they may not have had otherwise. It is a win-win for everyone.”
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