Supercharging events and tourism in Moreton Bay Region

Moreton Bay Regional Council is backing the tourism and events sector to help drive a post-coronavirus economic recovery.

In partnership with Moreton Bay Region Industry and Tourism (MBRIT), a supercharged events program and new destination campaign will be rolled out as soon as social distancing restrictions are lifted.

“Through our partnership with MBRIT, we will launch a $240,000 destination campaign to support those businesses hit hardest by COVID-related closures, our local tourism, retail, and hospitality businesses,” Mayor Peter Flannery says.

“COVID-19 has created uncharted territory for many businesses, so MBRIT will be investing $50,000 to continue its free professional development for local businesses through its Business Moreton Bay Program.

“In recent months, we’ve also seen the cancellation of many of southeast Queensland’s favourite events including the upcoming Redcliffe Kite Festival. That’s why we’ll be working with MBRIT to supercharge our region’s major events program, so they will be able to cater for an influx of residents and visitors, as soon as we can safely deliver these events.

“This includes events like Moreton Kids Festival at Strathpine, Australia Day at Bribie Island, The Hills Festival, Redcliffe Kite Fest and Lunar New Year at Caboolture.”

Why this is important

Mayor Flannery says it will give southeast Queensland families more reasons to put the Moreton Bay Region at the top of their travel lists - which is great news for local business.

MBRIT CEO Shane Newcombe says the ongoing partnership with council is key to supporting the economic recovery of the region.

“Tourism is worth more than $1 billion to our economy and drive tourism is the most important component of that,” Mr Newcombe explains.

“One of the most immediate and important ways of getting our local economy back on track is to boost tourism visitation into our region. Our destination campaign will roll out across metro TV and radio stations, showcasing our region and its attractions to the rest of southeast Queensland.

“I can’t thank council enough for their ongoing support, which is backing local businesses when they need it most. Council’s initial $15 million stimulus package has already helped by reducing food licensing costs for businesses, so this $460,000 announcement is another confidence booster.”

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