The Federal Government is stepping up its efforts to attract more grey nomads … and other visitors to the Red Centre.
Like many of the more remote parts of Australia, the region has seen a downturn in traveller numbers due to uncertainty over fuel proves and potential fuel availability.
Back in March, Tourism Central Australia launched its two-year ‘Head for the Heart’ campaign, which highlighted the wide range of experiences available in the Red Centre including lesser-known trips and destinations.
The range of experiences on offer has now increased, with $2.5 million in grants delivered to 17 tourism businesses through the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund.
Authorities are hoping their new plan will lure more visitors to the NT. PIC: Pixabay/Wagim
The fund supports Red Centre tourism operators to invest in new tourism offerings and experiences that will encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more of the region. The full list can be found here.
Minister for Trade and Tourism Don Farrell said the Government was committed to supporting tourism in regional Australia, and new funding would offer targeted support to the Red Centre to support local businesses, jobs and communities.
“This funding will help to create new experiences and tell the Red Centre’s remarkable story to the world, driving the tourism that is a lifeblood for the region,” he said.
The investment has also seen the launch of Tourism Central Australia (TCA)’s Fly Free to Alice campaign, which allows Australian travellers access to free flights to the Red Centre when booking a travel experience.
Danial Rochford, CEO of Tourism Central Australia said the investment worked on two fronts.
“The Red Centre Marketing Boost is powering campaigns like Fly Free to Alice that bring more Australians to our region, while the Red Centre Tourism Development Fund is backing 17 local operators to create the new experiences that make a visit here unforgettable,” he said. “It is a strong vote of confidence in the future of Central Australian tourism.”
# Click here to read about the new effort to attract more grey nomads to the Kimberley this year.
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Went the Red Centre to have a look and what a rip off, $ 38 dollars thank you very much. You cannot pay cash only card. Now I am told its $50 dollars. Plus at the time I was told about 44000 thousands would be coming. You work it out what the goverment is making out of it.
The lack of affordable camping/caravan sites is a major deterrent at Yulara…the existing cp is very expensive, often booked out, and their overflow offers nothing worth paying for. More options could be investigated ?
I’m not driving that far and paying huge entrance fee camping fee as well as petrol prices. Been to and walked around the rock 20 years ago . We would happily go back but not at that cost. Same as great Australian bight. Why would someone like me from a first second and third fleet families pay for the privilege to visit my country.