Launch of new multi-media campaign inspires locals to book now and holiday soon!
Posted on May 12th, 2020
“There is no question that when a tourist comes and visits a destination, those dollars get spread right through the economy.’ – Grant Cassidy, Empire Apartment Hotel
We have proved in the past that strong roots weather the toughest storms, and as the modern world experiences temporarily paralysis in the face of COVID-19 uncertainty, familiar faces of our local tourism industry are delivering an inspiring, emotion evoking message to the entire community.
Capricorn Enterprise, in conjunction with battling tourism operators, is launching powerful vision through multi-media, set to hit screens today, in a bid to promote continued connection, interaction and encourage the region to band together in support of local tourism.
From 12th June, with the pride, warmth and hospitality that our destination is recognised for, our accommodation providers, tours and attractions are ready and raring to make up beds for their guests, restaurants are eager to once again set their tables for more diners, and our brilliant tours and attractions enthusiastic about reopening their doors for the public.
The commercial is a call to arms for Rockhampton, Capricorn Coast and those within the 250km radius to spend money in our region by purchasing accommodation and tour vouchers/pre-tickets, ready for when the pause button is released, and staying and playing is once again back on the cards.
With thousands of future bookings lost and cash flow for many operators halted indefinitely, Capricorn Enterprise CEO, Mary Carroll is counting on the local community to keep the cogs turning for these valued businesses and support our top-class tourism operators during the most brutal challenge they have ever faced.
“The tourism industry was the first to shut down and is set to be the last to reopen,” said Mary. “We know that better days are coming however similarly with cyclones, floods or bushfires, the economic brunt of this predicament is having an even bigger bearing on our local operators. Spending money in our own backyard during the important months that lay ahead is vital for our region to return even stronger than ever.”
The commercial was created by Rockhampton businessman, Bryce Millar, owner of Mad Dog Productions.
“The project was one of the most emotional projects I’ve had to work on – and I’ve been doing this for 20 years”, said Bryce.
“My wife and I were married at Ferns Hideaway and all of our family holidays are spent exploring our islands, so when the industry we love so dearly was affected we knew we had to help in any way we could. To see all the familiar faces and to hear of the hardship they are going through was very confronting.”
“However, the resilience shown in every single tourism operator made me realise just how much this industry means for our region and most importantly, what it means for our future generations.”
Kerry McCoombe from Rosslyn Bay Resort on the Capricorn Coast is one operator featuring in the commercial who is passionate about overcoming the current challenge together as a community and a destination.
“During times of uncertainty, there is always one thing we can count on…each other,” said Kerry.
“It’s been a really hard time for the entire business fraternity, but we are hopeful for the future and urge people to keep dreaming. When people plan travel, it gives them excitement and excitement gives people hope.”
Normally bustling with visitors and locals alike, this spectacular time of year on the Tropic of Capricorn is being marked by closed attractions and shuttered accommodation.
“It’s just so strange not to have all the beautiful smiles coming here. It’s just so quiet at Fern’s which is very, very unusual,” shared John Martin from Fern’s Hideaway. “However, this is just the intermission and the show will go on.”
Also featuring representatives from the Capricorn Caves, Cooberrie Park Wildlife Sanctuary, Koorana Crocodile Farm, Empire Apartments, Great Keppel Island Hideaway and Pumpkin Island, the short but impactful campaign tells the current story and challenges faced by these businesses, and what transactions and future bookings would mean for them.
“We will come through it and be tougher and stronger at the end.” – Eloise Chaffers, Great Keppel Island Hideaway
Book Now, Visit Soon – www.visitcapricorn.com.au.
