Of MICE and Mentions

Published on 30 July 2020

Councillor Williams, Annette Pearce, Mayor.jpg

Rockhampton’s tourism drawcards are paving the way for roving retirees, bright eyed backpackers and wandering weekenders to visit our beautiful region as they take up Council’s call to ‘stop, see, and stay’.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Margaret Strelow said the current tourism campaign from Council’s Advance Rockhampton team has really hit the bullseye.

“We have so much to offer in our Region, from some of the best mountain bike trails around to world class fishing as well as fantastic accommodation, cafes, bars and restaurants,” said Mayor Strelow.

“Through the Explore Rockhampton campaign we have been putting the call out to other Queenslanders to come and check our region out and I am thrilled to say they are taking up our invite.

“According to the world’s leading accommodation data specialists, STR, our Region’s accommodation providers have seen an average occupancy of 80.7% for the month of July.

“This is compared to the Queensland average of 57.1%, and country-wide average of 48.8%.

“Our tourism unit is also targeting business tourism, and reaching out to national and multi-national companies to show them that our Region is the right choice for their next business event with a comprehensive Meeting, Incentive Conference and Event (MICE) Guide.

 Assistant Tourism Councillor Tony Williams said he is happy to hear local operators have really seen a boost.

“We can’t overstate the importance of our local businesses and tourism operators,” said Cr Williams.

“When people return to their homes after visiting our Region, they leave with stories of a great day of fishing, the café owner with the best single origin beans they’d ever tried, and the guide with a clear passion for her hometown and its history.

“So I am thrilled to hear that some of our local operators saw their busiest period ever over the last school holidays, and it is great to take a moment to celebrate wins like this–they really do benefit our Region as a whole.”

Tourism Manager Annette Pearce says the campaign is clearly resonating with audiences.

“On TVs, radios, social media and billboards across the State people eager for a break are catching a glimpse of the arts, culture and history we have to offer, and it is fantastic to see that they are visiting here to find out more,” said Ms Pearce.