The artesian waters and pool complex has been the "hero" of the region's tourism industry for years but the Moree Plains' visitor numbers will take a hit following the announcement of the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre's closure.
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Following the announcement last week (July 30) that the MAAC would enter into liquidation, the Tourism Moree board and staff have said while they were saddened by the news, they were focused on working with, and supporting, all of the tourism and business operators during this time, and beyond, to ensure that we sustain and continue to grow the tourism industry.
"Since the announcement, our team has been fielding many enquiries about the MAAC and are endeavouring to seek information and details on the way forward at this point in time," CEO Tammy Elbourne said.
Whilst our number one attraction may be out of commission for now, as a community it's up to all of us to support our businesses and operators that will be feeling the pinch, and continue to promote our wonderful shire, now more than ever.
- Tammy Elbourne, Tourism Moree CEO
"We, like many in our community, are awaiting advice and once we have a direction from the relevant organisations, we will be sure to assist and share this information with our stakeholders and our community.
"We are aware that the temporary closure will leave a large gap in our tourism portfolio."
Mrs Elbourne said Tourism Moree was committed to advocating and pursuing all avenues to ensure that the reopening of the facility and the road ahead was a number one priority to the 'powers to be'.
"It's of no surprise that the tourism Industry like many, is currently suffering at the hands of the pandemic. However, to date the Moree Plains has fared extremely well, with domestic tourism set to be the winners once the current restrictions of travel from a large population of our Australian community has eased," Mrs Elbourne said.
"We must all remember that the Moree Plains has numerous ways for visitors and our community to enjoy a wonderful country experience through our incredibly dynamic and diverse array of tourism attractions and products.
These range from our private artesian water accommodation facilities, the unique artesian water experiences in our smaller community towns such as Boomi and Mungindi, our educational and informative agricultural tours, our beautiful arts with our galleries, indigenous culture and arts, to the picturesque golfing facility, our boutique retail businesses and our beautiful cafes, pubs and restaurants. All enveloped by our vast natural landscape and colour rich skyscapes.
"Whilst our number one attraction may be out of commission for now, as a community it's up to all of us to support our businesses and operators that will be feeling the pinch, and continue to promote our wonderful shire now more than ever.
"Tourism Moree is committed to continuing to work with our community during this tough time to ensure that our tourism industry will sustain and continue to grow."
