It’S “too remote” for Tourism Events Queensland to support, but the Mornington Shire Council is hoping it can attract the interest of a private investor for a new welcome sign it wants to erect at its airport.
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At the moment all it has is a greeting that warns of a $75,000 fine for bringing alcohol onto the island – a real slap in the face according to some.
Shire CEO Frank Mills said it was working hard to move the region forward, and a revitalised sign was an important part of that.
Staff have been attempting to source funding for a unique “Welcome to the Wellesleys” designed by local school-children but so far all have ended in knock-backs.
A submission for funding through Tourism and Events Queensland earlier in the year was unsuccessful – the region’s remoteness and “inability to generate significant tourism dollars” were the reasons given for the thumbs down.
“For there to be a future built on sustainable eco-tourism, there must be a beautiful sign welcoming residents home and visitors to enjoy our home,” Mr Mills said.
It already has a significant application in through the National Stronger Regions Fund for a jetty redevelopment plan and foreshore business and recreation precinct proposal that would cater to the 4000 vessels currently operating in the Gulf of Carpentaria but bypassing the island.
“Council needs to lay the foundations now for a prospering future for residents built on keeping culture strong and fostering an island eco-tourism trade,” Mr Mills said.
“Therefore a revitalised and traditional welcoming sign to the Wellesleys is very important. We don’t need to be slapped in the face by a giant government reminder that alcohol is not permitted.”
Council is hoping a private partner will see value in helping fund a sign, costed at about $7500, where government cannot.
Already there is great anticipation of one going up – school students are being asked if they should include a picture of a dugong or a shovel-nosed shark.
