Queensland’s government is encouraging coastal residents to visit the state’s drought-stricken west with a two-for-one offer on train tickets for regional services.
As part of the Year of Outback Tourism initiative, Queensland Rail is offering the sale on all of its western train services.
From December 1 until the end of February, the offer will be available for economy seats on The Inlander and The Westlander, as well as economy seats and first-class sleepers on the Spirit of the Outback.
“It’s been a tough year for Queensland’s red heart, with natural disasters devastating many rural communities,” premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.
“Outback tourism is already worth more than $350 million and supports 3700 jobs, and we’re continuing to work closely with local governments and businesses, community organisations and festival promoters to ensure these numbers continue to grow.”
Transport minister Mark Bailey said previous two-for-one sales drove a 30 per cent increase in off-peak travel in western Queensland.
“I want to encourage mums, dads, couples and carers thinking of a summer holiday to consider this great deal and to visit western Queensland,” Bailey said.
“By visiting our outback towns, people are helping keep local business doors open much longer than they normally would be during summer months.”