From the Reef to the Range

Mayors discuss regional links


Article heading image for From the Reef to the Range

Opportunities to enhance links between Far North Queensland and the Darling Downs and surrounds were among topics discussed by the Mayors of the Cairns and Toowoomba Regions in the past week.

Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio hosted Cairns Regional Council Mayor Cr Bob Manning OAM on Monday at an informal lunch as part of his stay in Toowoomba.

Mayor Antonio said he and Mayor Manning had held discussions with Queensland and Australian Tennis officials at last week’s Brisbane International tennis tournament.

“We were especially interested to hear from state and national tennis body representatives about how our respective tournaments are attractive events for the emerging tennis professionals,” Mayor Antonio said.

“These events are important dates on our respective calendars and continue to draw more international players as well as the cream of Australia’s rising tennis talent.

“Apart from tennis, Bob and I have spoken about exploring ways to attract our respective residents and other visitors to take advantage of the direct flights between our centres.

 

Image Supplied:  Toowoomba Region Mayor Paul Antonio (left) and TRC’s Cr Geoff McDonald (right) enjoy Queens Park with visiting Cairns Regional Council Mayor Cr Bob Manning OAM.

“The adage ‘opposites attract’ could be a great angle to exploit with visits to the Great Barrier Reef and the tropical north as one option balanced by the four seasons and regional variations on offer in the southern part of the state.

“We should never overlook our unique regional attractions that hold tremendous appeal for visitors from other parts of Queensland as well as further afield.

“As well as visits between the two centres and surrounding areas, Cairns also offers southern travellers a convenient international gateway. This has benefits for business travellers and people looking to establish new trade links both here and overseas.

“Tourism aside, we also see many benefits in exploring greater business opportunities between our respective regions.

“I greatly respect Bob’s past experience and direct involvement in not only tourism, but also marine and aviation sectors. He has a wealth of experience in numerous international business and management fields.

“He has enjoyed a few days relaxing and exploring in our region and will be able to pass this experience back to his northern colleagues. I’m looking forward to welcoming many more North Queenslanders to the Toowoomba Region.”

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8 January 2018




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