MPs join push to promote tourism

State and Federal politicians have pledged to promote Rockingham amid debate about how to increase tourism.

TheTelegraph revealed last week that Tourism Rockingham had concocted a new campaign to promote the city but State Government funding for marketing is not available.

WA Labor leader Mark McGowan said promoting the State’s tourism assets as a collective entity was a priority if he was elected Premier next year, with Rockingham included in this.

“Rockingham is a great place but we need to sell it better,” he said.

“Our Plan for Jobs includes a big boost to funding for destination marketing. I’m keen to make sure that Rockingham is promoted as part of that.

“Highlighting our best assets is important and I personally think that the dolphins and the penguins are two of the best things to do in Perth; I think that would be an important component of it.”

New Federal Member for Brand Madeleine King said the potential for growth in Rockingham tourism was exciting.

“Tourism is one of the strongest performing sectors in the economy and we know it is an important driver for local jobs and economic development,” she said.

“With 750,000 tourists already visiting Rockingham every year, the potential for future growth is very exciting.

“I will continue to champion the fantastic attractions, both nature-based and action-packed, Rockingham and surrounds have to offer.”

Experience Perth chief executive Noeleen Pearson said Rockingham was an important destination for the overall marketing of Perth.

“In order to attract more visitors from both international and domestic markets we have to market Perth as a destination with a lot to offer,” she said.

“Rockingham therefore is one of our iconic tourism assets which is pivotal in our organisation’s overall strategy to effectively market Perth and surrounds.”

Australian Hotels Association WA chief executive Bradley Woods said tourism played a prominent role in the Rockingham economy.

“A strong tourism sector is important for many local businesses in the Rockingham area, including restaurants, bars and pubs,” he said.

“It’s important that tourism marketing campaigns include a wide variety of attractions.”