Cape York Weekly FREE – #038 | Tuesday, June 15, 2021
Editor: Matt Nicholls 0477 450 558 | editor@capeyorkweekly.com.au
TOURISTS have flocked to the southern part of Cape York for the opening weekend of the 2021 Cooktown Expo, with big numbers expected again this weekend. While the attendance was not as high as organisers predicted, the flow-on for the Cape York tourism industry should be huge. Camp grounds and roadhouses are already bulging across the Peninsula. Expo coverage – Page 10
Discount local flights extended for 12 months
Fare scheme boost By MATT NICHOLLS
SUBSIDISED air fares for Cape York and Torres Strait residents will continue for at least another 12 months, with the state government to announce today the Local Fare Scheme will be extended. It is a coup for the state’s most isolated people who have come to rely on the scheme to travel to and
EXCLUSIVE from Cairns, as well as other Far North communities. It will also provide a boost for airlines such as Skytrans, Rex and even Qantas, who have struggled to maintain previous levels of passengers during the pandemic.
Cape York Weekly understands the scheme costs the government about $6 million per annum, although the economic benefits to the region are worth much more. While the extension is just for 12 months and will form part of this week’s budget, department insiders say it’s likely the Local Fare Scheme will become a permanent fixture at next year’s budget.
Member for Cook Cynthia Lui said almost 100,000 trips had been taken on the scheme since the Palaszczuk government reintroduced it in July 2015. “We’re pleased to be able to provide assurance to residents in these communities that travel will remain affordable until at least June next year,” Ms Lui said. “This budget is all about en-
NEW LIFTOUT FROM THIS WEEK: DROPPING BEATS NOT BALLS!
suring Queenslanders continue to have access to essential services, and extending the Local Fare Scheme is part of the Palaszczuk government’s COVID-19 economic recovery plan. “Many remote towns in the Far North are a whole day’s drive from regional centres so reduced flight costs really are a lifeline.” Continued – Page 2
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