Archive for the "General" Category

From up here us seagulls hear a lot of excuses and supposed justifications as to why our region, state and country costs have to rise and in fact many of those reasons and excuses may often make some sense, even when we would rather they did not. However, armed with this knowledge we still find it a rather bitter pill to swallow.

On the other side of the coin we do not often hear of these same people talking about cost cutting measures that have been introduced to reduce expenditure and make organisations more efficient and effective thereby, perhaps saving us some of our hard earned cash. From where I am perched, I can see numerous instances where we could potentially save considerable funds to perhaps offset some of the contemplated cost increases. I realise I am not Einstein so if I can see this potential then obviously others can too, however, I believe that some of our public servants lack motivation and find it easier to just ask for more money from us than have to work more efficiently themselves to get that little extra. If small business operated anything like the various tiers of government in this country, then we would all be in a great deal of trouble. Without pointing the poison stick at anyone we should be able to expect our representatives to constantly adjust and improve the procedures and policies that govern each entity. Maybe, as I have suggested previously, we could all act as unpaid advisors to show government where and how they might be able to glean some savings to better manage OUR regions, states and country.

Fraser Coast South Burnett Tourism hosted the Fraser Coast Tourism Advisory Group Meeting or TAG meeting on Monday 17^th June 2010, in the Executive Suite, USQ Campus, Old Maryborough Road, Hervey Bay. Leigh Bennett facilitated the proceedings and asked for input and direction from those operators present. Many points of view were put forward and no doubt many ideas will be taken on board by Fraser Coast Tourism in their plan moving forward. The question of funding for the entity charged with taking our Fraser Coast to the world was discussed at some length, however, the solution is still in the lap of the gods, so to speak, as it is unlikely that all operators will agree to even a $25.00 levy in the short term, even if it was to put us on the map.

That is a very great shame and may prove to be our undoing should we as a Region not address the matter with some urgency. The implications of sticking our heads in the sand may well come back to bite us.  When times are tough it is easy to look for blame and become negative, rather than look for a positive solution. It has been suggested by some that we should adopt a great array of changes to facilitate a miraculous escape from the current economic situation.

However I believe that the answer lies not in making any far reaching changes necessarily, but by working smarter and taking our own advice in regards to working together towards common goals, instigating and maintaining a positive push towards a stronger Fraser Coast, not fragmenting business as is becoming the case by a minority. Ancient armies knew that to remain strong they must work together and over time this has been proven time and again, so why is it that some of us think we know better, especially now. I would have thought that now is the time to revert to the time tested and proven processes and policies, at least until we get back on an even keel.

As I have stated previously, in my opinion it is important that we assist the process by throwing our financial and moral support behind the FCSBT. I also believe that the FCSBT would then have to continue to be accountable and ensure that monies were spent in a manner that would most likely ensure favourable outcomes for all.

I note, and find it ironic that the people suggesting the re badging of our region are the very same people who fail to assist in the growth of our region as a destination by putting their money where their mouth is, and many are not even members of our regional tourism body but still seem to think that they have a god given right to attempt to dictate to the FCSBT body regarding their promotional direction. These are the same handful of people pulling against the overwhelming majority of operators to talk up the Fraser Coast as a destination and thereby increase our combined tourism market share.

We are doing Fishing Trips on our Australian Boating College vessel ( Quintrex 5.8) departing from Aquavue daily.  We will be operating two trips per day ( max 5 PAX) when the weather is being kind and the fish are biting and also subject to availability of course.  We will be out for four hours per trip and not be operating beyond the Fairway Bouy.  Refreshments from Aquavue will be available during the trip. Prices will be $80-00 per adult and $60-00 per child under 14 years. Commission will apply for booking agents.

Apparently there was a meeting at the RSL for stakeholders of the above on or about the 16th June 2010.
It seemed strange that a few days after this meeting, a discussion flyer materialised around the Bay. A coincidence I’m sure.

Anyone interested in having input into and commenting on our lack of quality boating facilities should go online at www.msq.qld.gov.au and ensure that their point of view is put to those that can make a difference and to ensure updated facilities are provided for our Fraser Coast.

The Hervey Bay national whale day this year was held on the foreshore next to Aquavue to showcase Hervey Bays’ love of Humpback Whales. The action kicked off at 10am and included the Torquay Aquavue Markets, sand sculpting workshops, a feature sand sculpture, Hervey the Whale meet and greets, Whale research talks and stacks of prizes were won by those present. At 12.30pm the “paddle out for Humpback Whales” where people paddled out on anything that floated to represent the 507 whales which were slaughtered during 2009. Sea FM’s Tommo and other Sea FM staff went for a Banana Ride instead of the planned Sky Dive as the wind was not favourable for skydiving on Torquay Beach at that time. Aerial footage was taken by Hervey Bay Sky Divers for which we are truly grateful. The event was held in aid of sending an important message to the world that Hervey Bay’s Humpbacks are an important part of our community and we wish to see them coming here for many generations to come.

The annual Hervey Bay Whale Festival in August is a celebration of the unbreakable link between our community and the humpback whales so get along and support this very worthy cause.

This year the festival will use interactive and fun activities to educate and remind residents and visitors about the importance of preserving our unique natural environment.

The festival on Saturday August 7, which attracts about 15,000 visitors to the Seafront Oval, is a great way to meet some of the amazing people in our community and to experience first hand how Hervey Bay can put on a show.

It’s also the perfect opportunity for local businesses to showcase their products and services and align their promotions to with the festival’s theme.
Council’s Events Team is encouraging businesses to think outside of their shops and take their products to the people.

We are looking for local artists, photographers and caterers to use the festival as a platform to showcase their talents,” Fraser Coast Regional Council Executive Manager Customer Service, Marketing and Tourism Lisa Stephenson said.

“For example, festival attendees will be able to see a local jeweller hand-crafting whale tail jewellery at the festival.

“The festival offers businesses a massive opportunity to showcase themselves and maximise the economic benefits that whale season provides to the community.”

People interested in a stall can download expression of interest forms from the festival website at www.herveybaywhalefestival.com.au.

The expressions of interest applications close on Monday, July 12, 2010. For further information telephone the Fraser Coast Regional Council’s Events Unit on 4190 5882 or email events@frasercoast.qld.gov.au

The much-loved Hervey Bay Whale Festival program this year includes a family fun day, culminating in the Fraser Coast Chronicle Illuminated Street Parade and a Live Whale Aid concert.

Rides, market stalls and fireworks will feature on the program.

We’re preparing our first Aquavue newsletter. You can subscribe and be kept up to date by entering your name and email below;