Call for LNP and Labor to both dig deeper for critical tourism infrastructure

“It was absolutely fantastic that Federal Labor committed $25 million to Great Keppel Island (GKI) power and water infrastructure,” Cr Ludwig said.

“That strategic investment, when combined with the $31.8 million commitment from the State Government, will virtually guarantee the GKI project moves forward to deliver more than 1600 jobs for our region.

“Labor has also committed $21.6 million to sealing and upgrading Stanage Bay Road. This investment will make the road both safe for army exercises as well as going a long way toward helping grow a vibrant and viable tourism industry at Stanage Bay Township.

“In turn, the LNP to their credit, have made a solid $20 million commitment to the Keppel Bay Sailing Club (KBSC) Convention Centre which will deliver a huge coup for our region.

“The planned thousand seat convention centre will deliver close to 200 direct full-time jobs on the mainland and is certainly a critical business tourism infrastructure project that this region absolutely needs.

“Collectively, these projects will transform our region into the national and international drawcard tourism destination critical to diversifying and underpinning our future economic growth.

“Our region needs all three projects to address the $35 million economic loss resulting from the Federal Governments ongoing acquisition of beef properties for army training purposes.

“The tourism sectors capacity as a key economic driver to generate thousands of sustainable, long-term jobs and build economic diversity is beyond dispute.

“The region needs both major parties to dig a little deeper to ensure that, regardless of whoever forms government on May 18th, our region’s future tourism industry is secure,” Cr Ludwig said.