Tourism boost for our region

Friday, 28 January 2011 16:59

Media Releases - Kevin Anderson Media Release

Tourism in Gunnedah, the Liverpool Plains and Narrabri will be boosted as part of a $5 million funding injection to regional tourism if the NSW Liberals & Nationals are elected on 26 March, Nationals Candidate for the seat of Tamworth, Kevin Anderson, said today.

Under the plan, announced by NSW Opposition Leader Barry O'Farrell and Shadow Tourism Minister George Souris, the New England North West Regional Tourism Organisation to receive at least $250,000.

"Gunnedah, Quirindi and Narrabri can provide visitors with amazing experiences but the Keneally Labor Government's neglect of regional tourism has seen us lose visitors to other states," Mr O'Farrell said.

"With Kevin Anderson's local leadership, the NSW Liberals & Nationals are determined to strengthen the region's tourism industry."

The $5 million boost to regional tourism comes on top of the existing $5.1 million in funding per annum for the State's 13 Regional Tourism Organisations from Tourism NSW.

The additional funds will be used to develop direct tourism product, visitor stays, and tourism attractions and destinations, with each mainland Regional Tourism Organisation receiving a $250,000 Regional Tourism Product Development Allocation and the remaining $2 million being shared by Regional Tourism Organisations on larger scale product development initiatives.

"Sadly, for the past 16 years the NSW Labor Government has ignored regional tourism in areas like Gunnedah and underestimated its potential to drive economic growth outside metropolitan areas," Mr Souris said.

Mr Anderson, speaking today at Gunnedah's Waterways Wildlife Park, confirmed he would continue to fight for support for tourism operators if elected on 26 March this year.

"Having lived in this electorate for 18 years, I understand the appeal of our area and know that with this funding boost from the NSW Liberals & Nationals our tourism industry will prosper," he said.

"Gunnedah, Quirindi and Narrabri has so much to offer but a lack of government support has left our tourism industry without a competitive advantage. As part of a NSW Liberals & Nationals government, I would do everything possible to make sure visitors want to head our way, supporting jobs and businesses in Gunnedah."

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