Cape York Weekly FREE – #016 | Monday, December 21, 2020
Editor: Matt Nicholls 0477 450 558 | editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au
VISITOR NUMBERS EXPECTED TO SKYROCKET
Cape prepared for 2021 tourism spike By MATT NICHOLLS
INSIDE TODAY
CAPE York tourism may have been a victim of COVID-19 this year but local operators expect a massive bounceback in 2021. Weipa Camping Ground owner Brooke Quartermaine said she was confident that tourists would return in greater numbers than ever before, providing the coronavirus numbers are controlled. “We’re optimistic about next year and our bookings are looking really good,” she said. Ms Quartermaine said only a late rush of tourists saved this year from being a disaster. The Weipa tourism market had to think on its feet when COVID created havoc around the country. Western Cape Eco Tours owners Dave and Lisa Hill took the boat out of the water and found other work to keep themselves afloat. It was similar for Hardus van Wyk and his partner Megan Hall, who managed to lease out their bus that would normally be used for the Weipa Mine and Town Tours. Fishing charter operators also did it tough. Most were forced to cancel the bulk of their bookings and reschedule them for next year. “Everyone had to think on their feet but I think we all managed to get through,” said Jaime Gane, who operates Far North Fishing Weipa with husband Kurt. The positive is that 2021 shapes up to be bigger than ever before. Continued – Page 2
Key projects on track for 2021
Real estate market strong
Fire victims issue warning
Brooke Quartermaine and Jaime Gane are looking forward to a big tourism season next year after a tough slog in 2020 due to COVID.
More runs for Weipa star
Wishing our customers a merry Christmas and a happy and safe New Year FESTIVE TRADING HOURS: 10am – 12 midnight every day Closed Christmas Day | New Years Eve: 10am – late