Transport and Multicultural Affairs
The Honourable Annastacia Palaszczuk
01/04/2011
Great rail deal for Gold Coast's international visitors
The Queensland Government is aiming to lure international tourists to Brisbane with a ticket to ride, Transport Minister Annastacia Palaszczuk said today.
The special Queensland Coastal Pass is exclusive to overseas visitors and allows them to go all the way by train between the Gold Coast and Cairns for just $219 one way with unlimited stops in one direction.
Ms Palaszczuk said the limited offer is aimed particularly at backpackers and will get them back to the popular tourism destinations which took a hit during the recent natural disasters.
"There are also many work opportunities up north as communities move to rebuild," she said.
"The Queensland Coastal Pass is great value and the most flexible, easy and versatile way to discover the coast of Queensland.
"The Queensland Rail travel network provides the gateway to all the tourism hotspots including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, The Whitsundays, Townsville and Cairns."
Ms Palaszczuk said the Queensland Coastal Pass offers international visitors the freedom to hop on and off coastal rail services as they explore all the wonders this state has from beaches to the rainforests and The Great Barrier Reef.
The latest Tourism Research Australia figures show the number of international visitor numbers to Queensland and particularly the Gold Coast has increased for the first time in three years.
"Korean visitation has increased 22 per cent, Chinese visitation increased by 17 per cent and the region also enjoyed growth from Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.
The Queensland Coast Pass is available to international visitors to Australia only and for purchase up to 31 May 2011. Travel must be completed by 22 June 2011.
For further information log on to www.queenslandrail.com.au or call 1800 TRAINS (872 467)
