By STEVE GRAY
THIS has the makings of an unhappy marriage.
Plans to merge tourism promotions on the Granite Belt with those for Warwick and district have not gone over well.
There is perception that the two districts do different things, although each does them well.
Whereas Warwick tourism depends on a few big events a year, the Granite Belt has become a destination for those seeking wine, cooler weather and National Parks.
It’s this events tourism versus destination tourism that is at the heart of the current dispute.
Members of Granite Belt Wine and Tourism have threatened to go it alone if the Southern Downs Regional Council proceeds with plans announced last week to combine the tourism promotions under one banner by July next year.
Granite Belt Wine and Tourism president Bill James said the original plan, in which he participated, recommended an overarching committee for 12 months to see what it was like, to investigate ways the local organisations could work together.
He said the two areas were very different when it came to tourism.
“The Granite Belt Wine Country brand is very important to the Granite Belt,” Mr James said.
“The reaction we’ve had from members down here is one of ‘what are they doing to us?’. Well, we’re not sure yet.”
Mr James said before amalgamation there was nothing that pulled the two regions together or they did together.
“They were just two separate organisations at that stage,” Mr James said.
There was more need for information about the plan, he said.
“I’m not saying that us getting together is not going to work.”
“The thing that concerns us is there’s no detail given to us in this at all as to how it’s to work.”
Mayor Peter Blundell said the single board will be transitional, but could have real benefits.
“Under a more co-ordinated structure there will be greater opportunities to benefit from programs and support available from the state and Commonwealth governments. Also it will be better for the stakeholders that really matter most – our customers; our visitors, who we believe are keen to visit the region in ever increasing numbers,” he said.
Mr James criticised the announcement of the new union.
He said the first he knew of council’s decision was a call from the media.
That’s no way to start a marriage.
