The Dubbo Regional Council will apply for a share of $100 million of state government funding for regional tourism projects.
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Round two of the Regional Growth – Environment and Tourism Fund is open for applications.
Dubbo mayor Ben Shields said tourism is a significant industry for the Dubbo Region.
“We already have a number of attractions that other cities would love to have, including Taronga Western Plains Zoo, The Old Dubbo Gaol and Wellington Caves but that doesn’t mean we don’t look at new opportunities,” he said.
“Our staff will look closely at the details for the new grants available and see what projects we have that might be eligible, or whether there is scope for something completely new.
“Council owes it to ratepayers to investigate every opportunity.”
Member for Dubbo, Troy Grant said up to $50 million would be available for regionally iconic tourism activation projects that will cost over $5 million.
“This time it’s about providing bigger grants to those signature projects that will give us the chance to cement the region's status as a holiday and tourism hotspot and an all-around fantastic place to live,” he said.
“We want big picture projects that will help to attract more tourists, create jobs, and showcase the impressive landscapes the Dubbo electorate has to offer.”
Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said $142 million has already been committed to 32 projects from round one right across the state.
“Tourism Projects are currently underway from round one and are set to be huge drawcards for visitors to our rural and regional areas, filling our hotels, cafes, restaurants and boutiques, putting more tourist dollars in the pockets of local businesspeople,” Mr Marshall said. “It is not about festivals or events, it is about tourism products, either enhancing or creating new ones. Such as expanding Western Plains Zoo or building a ski lakes complex, big projects!”