March 15, 2017
The South Burnett has become the first “motorcycle friendly” region in Queensland.
But it may be several months before signs appear and motorcycle touring brochures are available at the region’s Visitor Information Centres.
At Wednesday’s South Burnett Regional Council meeting, councillors resolved unanimously to declare the region Motorcycle Friendly.
Mayor Keith Campbell told the meeting there were no set criteria for being recognised as a Motorcycle Friendly destination at present.
However, Texas and Crows Nest – Queensland’s two designated motorcycle friendly towns – have put up welcoming signage, set up motorcycle parking bays and produced motorcycle touring route brochures.
He believed the South Burnett should follow their example.
Mayor Campbell said the region’s tourism strategy was to grow visitor numbers through its traditional drive market, and motor cyclists were part of that market, along with caravanners and day trippers.
Studies showed the average motorcyclist spends $140 to $160 per day – almost four times as much as caravanners – because they don’t bring along the provisions most caravanners do.
This money is spent on food, drink, accommodation, fuel and emergency supplies.
Council will now look at allocating $20,000 in its 2017-18 Budget for the development of signage, brochures and motorcycle parking bays.
Footnote: Technically the South Burnett is the first Motorcycle Friendly region in Australia. However, Western Australia’s Avon region has been preparing its launch as a Motorcycle Friendly region for the past 18 months and will be holding their official launch in April. In a spirit of friendship, Mayor Campbell said the South Burnett will only lay claim to being the first Motorcycle Friendly region in Queensland.
- Related article: Region Plans To Welcome Motorcyclists
Start a conversation with some of the local motorcyclists in the area to get an idea of some of the local country rides in the South Burnett. These can range from a short ride with recommended points of interest on the way or half-day rides that take in the best the South Burnett has to offer.
Thank you Rob for your comments. I would be pleased to talk with you and our Tourism Portfolio Holder Cr Danita Potter as to your thoughts on this matter.
Yes, I’d like to have a discussion with you both on this subject. There are many riders who pass through Kingaroy and the South Burnett. We need to give them a good reason to spend time in our region.