Confusion and uncertainty arose last year following a number of shark incidents and a court ruling over the legality of certain shark control measures in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. The situation contributed to negative media coverage and wide-spread visitor concerns, adversely affecting key Queensland destinations.
Mr Gschwind continued, “It was critical that industry spoke up strongly and with a united voice when governments appeared to have reached a very unhelpful impasse”.
Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Whitsunday Tourism and the Queensland Tourism Industry Council made strong, joint representations to state and federal governments in November, urging a commonsense and science-based response to the challenges.
“We now have a strategic way forward that will see the implementation of measures that can restore visitor confidence in a way that is consistent with scientific evidence and with our environmental responsibilities.
“We congratulate both governments for responding in a constructive manner and work with the industry to restore confidence in our capacity to address challenges,” said Mr Gschwind.
A transition to SMART drumlines, support for safety netting, drone surveillance and further research will form a Commonwealth Government investment of $5 million dollars. Out of this $1 million will be allocated specifically to support the Whitsundays for education, signage and further research.
Ministers statement below.
http://statements.cabinet.qld.gov.au/Statement/2020/2/4/ministers-endorse-reef-strategy
Below is the statement from November:
https://qticazure.blob.core.windows.net/crmblobcontainer/191101%20Shark%20management%20statement.docx
Image from Tourism and Events Queensland
