Robert Irwin is the star of Queensland's new tourism marketing campaign

Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk has today announced Australian tourism icon Robert Irwin is spearheading the next phase of Queensland’s latest domestic tourism campaign.

The social media campaign was launched today after recent bushfires and the impacts the coronavirus is having on Queensland’s tourism sector.

“When times get tough, Queenslanders stand together. We’ve done it through fires and floods, now the coronavirus,” the Premier said.

“We need to do all we can to help our critical tourism industry through these tough times.

“We need to tell Australians that Queensland remains open for business and we need to encourage them to spend their tourist dollars in our state.

“Robert Irwin is recognisable the world over and a great ambassador for our state and I’m so glad he’s helping get the message out that Queensland is open for business.”

Tourism Industry Development Minister Kate Jones said it was great to have Robert on board.

“Tourism operators around the state need all the help they can get right now," she said.

"This campaign will make sure that Queensland is front-of-mind for millions of Australians looking to book a holiday.

“The Irwins are icons, particularly in the US. To have Robert backing in this campaign is invaluable.”

Ms Jones said Robert joined a long list of Queensland tourism operators in filming segments for the new video, which will be used across social platforms and encourages Australians to holiday in Queensland.

“When times get tough, Queenslanders work together. Tourism operators right across the state have banded together through this campaign,” she said.

“One in 10 Queenslanders are employed in the tourism sector. We must work together to safeguard this industry.”

The video also features images from a range of iconic Queensland tourism attractions and businesses including:

• Cape Hillsborough Sunrise Wallaby Experience
• Skyrail Rainforest Cableway
• Move World
• Quicksilver Group
• Riverlife Brisbane
• Mon Repos Conservation Park
• The Calile Hotel Brisbane
• Ocean Rafting
• Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre
• Pyramids Road Wine
• Spicers Hidden Vale
• Ballandean Estate Wines
• Kingfisher Bay Resort
• Mount Barney Lodge
• Lady Elliott Island Eco Resort
• Magnetic Island
• Outback Aussie Tours

Ms Jones said the sentiment of the video was shared by operators across Queensland.

“We want Aussies to know that they don’t have to go overseas to have a great holiday,” she said.

“Queensland has something for everyone – from our laidback lifestyle to our beaches and amazing food.

“It’s more important than ever before for Australians to head to the sunshine state.”

To view the video: https://facebook.com/annastaciamp/videos/212666336524112/ (external site)