Mackay Port Authority Airport Incentive Update Article first published on Friday, 22 August 2003 @ 4:38:38 PM

The Mackay Port Authority and the nation’s two major airlines are joining forces to attract more southern holidaymakers to Mackay and the Whitsundays.

Qantas and Virgin Blue have committed to an $80,000 campaign that’ll saturate Sydney and Melbourne with a marketing initiative, urging people to “Spring into Mackay” in September.

Airport manager Trevor Heard said the two airlines have been offered $20,000 each for advertising and promotional campaigns, aimed at penetrating the lucrative Sydney and Melbourne markets with attractively priced short-break holiday packages, via Brisbane.

The MPA’s $40,000 contribution will attract similar support from the airlines.
 
“The campaigns will be great for Mackay and Virgin and Qantas,” Mr Heard said.

“The more passengers we get through our terminal the better our bottom line will look at the end of the financial year. These incentives are just another way we can help grow our business and promote Mackay and the Whitsundays as a beaut spot for a holiday in the sun.”

Mr Heard said the spin off from the MPA’s proactive approach will be felt right through the tourism industry and other businesses in Mackay and the Whitsundays.

"People will spend money on sightseeing, island holidays, car hire and of course restaurants and accommodation,” he said. "There are benefits for the whole community."

The MPA is also looking at offering the airlines special incentives to promote direct services from Sydney and Melbourne.

Mr Heard said positive talks were continuing with both airlines, with Virgin examining the possibility of flying direct to Mackay on the weekend.

"Virgin is waiting to get more aircraft on line, but they have said there’s a possibility of an off-peak service on a Saturday or a Sunday, when there is not as much demand on the trunk routes." he said.

"Qantas says it’s reviewing the service."