August long weekend jackpot
Posted on June 2nd, 2020
Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast locals – you have all won a prize!
With our annual carnival of spinning lights cancelled in 2020, the scrumptious allure of Keppel Dogs and fairy floss will be sorely missed. Our senses will wish for the nostalgic scent of the cattle pavilion and squeals of excitement from the Ferris wheel.
But while we may not be able to secure our favourite showbags this year, we have been awarded the perfect opportunity to instead pack our travel bags, with a long weekend locked in for mid-August.
Despite events being cancelled, show holidays within the region have been moved to take place on Friday 14th August, extending a much-needed lifeline to the local tourism industry, and granting locals a getaway to explore their backyard.
Following many months of lobbying for the needs of our collapsing local tourism industry, Capricorn Enterprise CEO, Mary Carroll is now pleading with the community to take advantage of the next long weekend and start booking accommodation and experiences today.
“With further relaxations in state travel announced this week enabling greater Queensland travel, the August long weekend confirmation for our region is additional positive news for the local tourism sector,” Mary said.
“We are urging families to take the opportunity to get out of the house, spend money within the community and kick-start the resurgence of local business,” Mary said. “More than ever, we need locals to support locals and book a short break or extended holiday in our region – from the Keppel Islands to the Central Highlands.”
“Whether you are chasing the sun, eager to explore the great outdoors, dreaming of a romantic getaway or ready to reconnect with nature, our region is brimming with perfect short break opportunities to recharge your batteries.”
From quaint island resorts to charming country retreats, stunning beach, and riverside apartments to secluded rainforest cabins, many local businesses are already launching special deals to ensure a weekend getaway option to suit everyone.
Following months of industry suffering and multi-million dollar loses for the sector, Capricorn Enterprise, together with local tourism operators are hopeful that the long weekend will create an opportunity for locals to rediscover the beauty of the region and begin turning every weekend into an adventure.
“The financial losses suffered by our tourism/hospitality/service industry has been immense and while the latest easing of restrictions and movement of the show holiday is welcomed, it is only the first stage of a long road to recovery for the industry,” Mary said.
Capricorn Enterprise congratulates both Livingstone Shire Council and Rockhampton Regional Council on their decisions to move existing show holidays and create a long weekend, benefitting not only the community, but local business.
With only 11 weeks until the August long-weekend, your ‘backyard bucket list’ awaits. Check out local holiday deals now on sale – https://www.visitcapricorn.com.au/holiday-deals.
For road trips and drive journeys, click here – https://www.visitcapricorn.com.au/road-trips-and-drive-journeys
Livingstone Shire Council Media Release – Livingstone Shire’s Show Public Holiday officially moved to 14 August
