Families are flocking to the Bundaberg Region, putting smiles on the faces of tourism and business operators.
With the school holidays under way, the latest Wotif.com data shows Bundaberg is proving popular, with travel interest spiking above 500 per cent on the site (based on Queensland accommodation interest from NSW travellers on Wotif.com from 30 June – 1 July 2020).
Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said the interest was understandable.
“Bundaberg is the perfect base for families looking to get out and about these school holidays,” Daniel said.
“With its beaches, Botanic Gardens and of course the Great Barrier Reef, families are spoilt for choice when it comes to enjoying the great outdoors – something many are craving after months of isolation.
“Queensland has always been one of Australia's strongest tourism destinations and we know there is a big job ahead to support the tourism industry, so it's fantastic to see families are making the most of the school holidays and enjoying a much-deserved break in their own backyard.”
Occupancy up on last year
Loni Hammond from Kelly’s Beach Resort said occupancy was higher than last year.
“Compared to last year our occupancy for the winter school holidays is up by 2.3 per cent,” Loni said.
“With a week to go, we are expecting this to increase too.
“We are super grateful for the support of fellow Queenslanders.”
Since the announcement of the NSW border opening this Friday, enquiries have increased, mirroring Wotif’s findings.
“We had a 25 per cent increase compared to the same time last year of NSW visitors and a 50 per cent increase of SA visitors to our website since the announcement on Thursday,” Loni said.
“Everyone is very happy to be able to holiday.
“Lots of bookings come through online with comments like ‘can’t wait for a holiday' and we can’t wait to welcome them here.”
Encouraging to see interest
Bundaberg Tourism chief executive Katherine Reid said it was great to see so many people enjoying what the region has to offer for these school holidays, with strong interest also for future holidays.
“We believe we have an average of around 85 per cent occupancy amongst our accommodation operators around the region,” she said.
“Some of our coastal operators are reporting 95 to 100 per cent occupancy, which is really encouraging.
“After the announcement of the borders opening, we saw a spike on our website, particularly from NSW, looking at accommodation and things to do and see around the region.
“We know that Queenslanders love coming here for holidays and we’re seeing a lot of visitation from the South East corner; most are coming from Sunshine Coast, Brisbane and regional areas – the 400km drive radius.
“We’re also getting lots of good reports back from our wonderful cafes and restaurants about the food they’re putting on the tables.
“Everyone’s doing a fabulous job welcoming people back into the Bundaberg Region.”
