The Newman Government has released its draft Ecotourism Plan for public input.
 
National Parks Minister Steve Dickson, along with Tourism Minister Jann Stuckey unveiled the draft plan, an outcome of the inaugural DestinationQ workshop held in Cairns last year.

“DestinationQ brought together government and tourism industry representatives to find a way forward for Queensland tourism, along with opportunities for us to become world leaders in ecotourism,” Mr Dickson said.

“This draft plan recognises Queensland’s greatest competitive advantage is our unique natural environment.  

“The future of ecotourism in Queensland will be guided by ecologically responsible and sustainable practices.

“We are blessed with more than 1,300 national parks, marine parks and other reserves conserving a diverse array of species and ecosystems, our rich Indigenous cultural heritage and five World Heritage listed areas — more than any other state or territory.

“National parks and protected areas have a big role to play in ecotourism and the LNP is committed to improving the environmental integrity of these unique areas while enriching the visitor experience.”

Ms Stuckey said a new Ecotourism Plan for Queensland was long overdue.

“Queensland was a pioneer for ecotourism and experienced great success through the nineties and early 2000’s but that growth has stalled in recent years,” Ms Stuckey said.

“Initiatives include supporting operators to develop products, facilitating new investment, improving tourism skills and an overall reduction in red tape.”

Daniel Gschwind, CEO of the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) said the organisation had long recognised the State’s unique natural environment as critical to making Queensland the number one destination of choice for both domestic and international visitors.

“The draft Queensland Ecotourism Plan signals a new direction for this important tourism market of Queensland,” Mr Gschwind said.  

“It addresses a number of critical issues that have long been of concern to industry including providing commercially viable investment arrangements and a strong focus on best practice operations to deliver quality ecotourism experiences for visitors.”

The draft Plan is open for viewing and comment until Friday 31 May 2013 at www.nprsr.qld.gov.au.

Comments and any enquiries can be emailed to ecotourismplan@nprsr.qld.gov.au.