As Easter approaches, Visit Sunshine Coast is rolling out the welcome mat and reminding holidaymakers that the region is open for business and buzzing with opportunities for a holiday escape.
While March bookings fell 20 per cent compared to last year due to the impact of ex TC Alfred, the Sunshine Coast is bouncing back and has since successfully hosted major events such as the Noosa Festival of Surfing and the Mooloolaba Triathlon.
Visit Sunshine Coast Head of Industry and Trade Development Andrew Fairbairn said, “Our beautiful region is bouncing back, and we’re inviting visitors to rediscover their Sunshine Moment this Easter.”
“Initial assessments showed a $162 million hit to our tourism economy from TC Alfred, and we saw forward bookings dry up almost overnight.
“But the reality is the Sunshine Coast is in great shape. Businesses are ready and there are some fantastic deals available right now.”
The grab a great deals tab on visitsunshinecoast.com is packed with more than 60 hot accommodation offers from camping to five-star resorts – many with savings of up to 25 per cent – plus great deals on attractions and tours.
“We know cost-of-living pressures are hitting families hard, and there’s still a lingering (but false) perception that the Sunshine Coast was badly damaged by TC Alfred,” he said.
“So we’re going hard on our intrastate and interstate campaigns to set the record straight and get people back up here.”
Adding to that, a new airfare promotion with Jetstar is about to lift off, thanks to partnerships with Sunshine Coast Airport (SCA) and Tourism Noosa (TN).
“These airline promos have a strong track record of bringing thousands of new visitors to the region, and we’re expecting a solid bump from it,” Mr Fairbairn said.
SCA general manager Aviation and Commercial Scott Norris said, “Despite Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred disrupting travel plans, the sunshine has returned, bringing with it your chance to enjoy our stunning beaches, hinterland, restaurants, and everything in between.”
“We have been working with our airline partners, Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) and Tourism Noosa to spread the message that with over 80 flights per week connecting the Sunshine Coast to both Sydney and Melbourne, there has never been more choice and convenience when booking a coastal escape,” he said.
“Coast locals can also take advantage and grab a great deal to experience everything Sydney and Melbourne have to offer, including incredible events, restaurants, and night life.
“There are some great deals on airfares available with sale fares available now. It’s the perfect time to book your getaway and fly to the sunshine.”
Mr Fairbairn said the outlook for Easter shows 77 per cent occupancy for Easter Saturday, with encouraging figures for the following days.
“The Qld long weekend in May is already sitting at 56 per cent, up three per cent from last year, and May overall is wide open – perfect if you want to holiday at home and book a local May stay-cay.
“We’re sunny by name and sunny by nature, and there’s always something to do whether it be enjoying fresh local produce straight out of Queensland’s Sunshine Pantry or exploring one of our thrilling mountain bike trails.
“Easter is the perfect time to experience everything that makes the Sunshine Coast so special,” Mr Fairbairn said.
