Queensland is still open for business to holidaymakers despite the dramatic floods that have cut off many towns, according to tourism chiefs in the region.
The area has been devastated by torrential rain and a burst river system with around 20 towns and 20,000 people affected.
Queensland is a popular getaway for Brits and is home to the Great Barrier Reef, the cities of Brisbane and Cairns, the Gold Coast and the Whitsundays.
But a statement from Queensland Tourism says that most international visitors to the region will not be impacted by the floods.
It says: “Whilst there are domestic and international visitors experiencing challenges, mainly those embarking on self-drive holidays, most Queensland international focussed product is operating as business as usual.”
Areas to be wary of include those around the Bruce Highway which links Brisbane and Cairns and is now under half a foot of muddy water. Also, the rail line is cut north of Gladstone.
The city of Rockhampton is also a no go area – its airport has been closed and is under water whilst many of its residents have been evacuated.
The statement adds that although areas in central, outback and south-western Queensland were impacted, the big draws such as Brisbane, the Gold Coast, Townsville, Southern Downs, Tropical North Queensland, Fraser Coast and the Sunshine Coast were still currently accessible and fully operational.
by Dinah Hatch
