Mackay tourism sector proving strong performer post-COVID
The strength of Mackay’s inter-regional travel is highlighted by data from the recent National Visitor Survey (NVS), which shows that despite COVID-19 restrictions, the Mackay Region remains a popular travel destination.
During the 2019/2020 financial year, the Mackay Region welcomed one million domestic visitors who injected $438.6 million into the local economy and recorded three-year trend increases of 6.1 per cent for visitation and 4.9 per cent for visitor expenditure.
Driving tourism’s growth throughout The Mackay Region has been corporate travel demonstrating the strength and resilience of the region’s economy.
Mackay Tourism Chief Executive Officer Tas Webber told management rights industry magazine Resort News that it was pleasing that the region managed to maintain visitation during the pandemic.
He said: “Whilst COVID-19 has foreseen very tough economic conditions, most industries within the Mackay Region have continued to move forward and employ staff.
COVID-19 has unquestionably been the most difficult challenge for tourism to overcome. Mackay’s tourism industry, and indeed the region’s economy, is very fortunate to continue to grow during this pandemic.
“As we recover from COVID-19, Mackay is well positioned to attract more visitors, generate greater investment, create local jobs and support livability for our community.”
The Queensland Government also intends to deliver an investment of close to $1 million to deliver a major tourism attraction in Mackay as part of the state’s economic recovery strategy, it announced a partnership with Mackay-based cruise company Pure Escape to introduce a new full-day tour to nearby Cockermouth Island in the South Cumberland islands group.
Tas Webber said Pure Escape represented an exciting opportunity to add to Mackay’s flourishing tourism industry: “The Mackay Region is continuing its rise as a tourism destination, with over a million visitors a year seeking out our unique nature based experiences. The Pure Escape tour will build upon Mackay’s tourism appeal and further strengthen the economic recovery of our industry.
“Investing in the spectacular islands and reefs of the South Cumberland island group is a significant win our industry, our economy and the Mackay community. Tours and access to the islands off Mackay has long been missed by visitors and locals alike. It is very reassuring therefore, to see investment starting to be delivered.”
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