Townsville Enterprise together with the Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan Steering committee today has released the Draft Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan for public consultation.
The community, industry, investors, Townsville and Magnetic Island residents, and visitors are invited to provide formal feedback on the proposed Draft Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan.
Townsville Enterprise Director of Visitor Economy and Marketing, Lisa Woolfe, said the draft tourism plan has been created by tourism industry experts under the supervision of Townsville Enterprise and with input and guidance from a steering committee.
“The steering committee included members of the community, industry, Traditional Owner representation and Government and involved extensive consultation including workshops, one on one meetings, online forums, newsletters and event presentations,” Mrs Woolfe said.
“We heard different perspectives about the challenges and opportunities for the Island. There was also an overwhelming acknowledgment that we must do more to protect the Island’s natural and cultural values. We discovered that industry, community, and Government stakeholders are remarkably aligned in their aspirations for Magnetic Island, and it is important the plan reflects this collective vision.”
“The draft plan is a blueprint to ensure visitor growth on Magnetic Island is managed to protect the natural environment and the world heritage values, and deliver a world-class, best-in-Australia experience that aligns to the values and vision of the community, increases the economic return from tourism, and attracts private investment to the Island.”
Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said it was great to see the draft masterplan complete.
“Magnetic Island is a jewel in Townsville’s tourism crown and there are great opportunities to make the island an even better experience for visitors and locals,” Mr Stewart said.
“That’s why the Palaszczuk Government invested $130,000 to help develop this plan.”
“Maggie is blessed with natural attractions and this plan is about taking advantage of that in a balanced way.”
The Draft Magnetic Island Tourism Masterplan will be available for review from 6 December 2022 to 31 January 2023. Feedback can be provided via www.magneticislandtourismplan.com.au.
