By Roy Weavers

Far North Queenslanders are being urged to apply for grants for projects to improve The Great Tropical Drive between Cooktown and Townsville.
Applications for a $600,000 funding package for infrastructure catering to regional Queensland’s lucrative drive tourism market opened this week.

Cook MP Jason O’Brien urged local government authorities and regional tourism, development and community organisations to apply for the 2010-2011 Minor Tourism Infrastructure Grant Program.

During the 2009 election the Bligh government committed $37.8 million to supporting tourism in the State through our three-year Tourism Action Plan to 2012.

This included $1.8 million for the development of minor infrastructure on Queensland’s strategic tourism routes.

“The successful scheme is now in its second year and we are looking at assisting a number of new projects. I know there are all sorts of ideas out there just crying out for this sort of funding, so I urge as many people and organisations as possible to apply for the grants.” said Mr O'Brien

Applicants are able to seek a grant of up to $50,000 to cover part or 100 per cent of a project.

The projects can include interpretative information and signage, roadside picnic facilities, re-vegetation and weed clearing.

“These sorts of improvements not only make a very positive impact on the drive tourism market and further enhance Queensland’s reputation with travellers, they lead to more jobs in regional towns,” Mr O’Brien said.

“People are employed to help improve facilities or build new ones, which attract more tourists to the area which results in more jobs.”