A planned merger between Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland would reinvigorate Queensland’s approach to attracting visitors to the State according to Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games, Jann Stuckey.

Minister Stuckey said the merger would provide a more coordinated and strategic approach to attracting visitors to Queensland.

“Merging Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland into one entity will assist in the delivery of outcomes from the DestinationQ Forum, held in Cairns in June,” Ms Stuckey said.

“Tourism and events are intrinsically linked so the formation of one streamlined entity, with one specific purpose and one very focussed approach makes good sense.”

Ms Stuckey said legislation to merge Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland was introduced into Parliament late last week.

“Establishing Tourism and Events Queensland will ensure all efforts to attract visitors and events are focussed on achieving the best results and the best value for money for Queensland taxpayers,” Ms Stuckey said.

“We promised to put in place policies and processes that would revitalise the industry and we’ll continue to work with owners, operators and Regional Tourism Organisations to look at what we can do to enhance the industry,” Ms Stuckey said.

Chair of Tourism Queensland and Events Queensland, Stephen Gregg, said the merger will see one Board and all staff working towards a common goal.

“A common Board will ensure directors are across both tourism and event operations and be well placed to ensure collaboration and good governance occurs,” Mr Gregg said.

“As one entity, marketing and visitation opportunities will be optimised and any duplication removed.”