Discounted airfares and accommodation are set to lure visitors back to Cairns as part of the $5 million tourism recovery package to support tourism operators impacted by Tropical Cyclone Jasper and flooding.
The package is jointly funded by the Australian and Queensland Governments through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA).
The Qantas Group has now launched a special sale to encourage Australians to visit Cairns and North Queensland to support tourism operators and local communities impacted by ex-Tropical Cyclone Jasper.
Qantas and Jetstar one-way Economy domestic sale fares to Cairns start from $129 and $79 respectively.
The sales include flights to and from most capital cities and intrastate routes for travel from mid-January to the end of March 2024.
Discounted accommodation packages will be available in coming weeks through Qantas Hotels and Holidays, My Queensland and Luxury Escapes.
Negotiations are also ongoing with other aviation and travel industry partners.
“This jointly funded $5 million tourism recovery package aims to keep people coming to the region and provide crucial support to local businesses, local families and the local economy,” Premier Steven Miles said.
“The Australian and Queensland governments are committed to working together to get the Far North’s tourism sector back on its feet.”
“The clear message from tourism operators in Far North Queensland is that the region is open for business,” Federal Minister for Emergency Management Murray Watt said.
“The discounts on offer are substantial and ideal for anyone looking for an exciting or relaxing tropical getaway. They also support the communities of Far North Queensland in their recovery by attracting visitors back to the region.”
“Tourism is one of the key pillars in our Far North economy,’’ Tourism Minister Michael Healy said.
“We are an iconic domestic and international destination with some of the most unique natural attractions on the planet.”
“This is exactly what our operators need up north to get back on their feet and to make up for lost revenue over their peak holiday season,” Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said.
“There are some great offers available for an unforgettable Queensland holiday with something for everyone, including $129 flights from Qantas and $79 flights with Jetstar.
“Whether it be enjoying a tropical oasis relaxing poolside or experiencing a great adventure, from be snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, to marvelling at ancient rainforest, exploring the local markets and dining at world-class restaurants – Cairns operators are ready to welcome you.”
“The Tropical North Queensland tourism industry has been hit hard by holiday cancellations since early December, losing close to $300 million in bookings,” Tourism Tropical North Queensland CEO Mark Olsen said.
“This initiative will give the region a real shot in the arm as we need visitors now more than ever having missed out on what is traditionally a peak time for visitors over the Christmas and New Year period.
“It is ideal to visit at this time of year as summer brings outstanding visibility to the Great Barrier Reef and our rainforest tours are showcasing waterfalls at their best.
“While the iconic Great Barrier Reef Drive is under repair you can take a return trip from Cairns to Port Douglas by boat for just $50 and see the stunning mountains covered in Wet Tropics rainforest from the Coral Sea.”
“These heavily discounted fares offer great value for money, with customers able to lock in a last-minute getaway before the summer school holidays end,” Qantas Chief customer officer Catriona Larritt said.
