The Whitsundays has set an all-time record of international visitor expenditure.
Despite the decline in visitor numbers, international visitor expenditure climbed to a record $254 million (up 16.6%), consistent with national and state trends.
International visitors stayed a total of 1.1 million nights (down 3.7%), with the average length of stay steady at 6.6 nights. Meanwhile, international travellers are spending more, with average spend per visitor rising 23.5% to $1,483 and spend per night increasing 21.1% to $226.
The UK remained the largest source market at 47,000 visitors (down 5.7%). Growth was seen from Continental Europe (+5.9%) and Germany (+1.5%), while arrivals from the USA (-28.1%) and France (-8.7%) declined. Asia remained steady (-0.9%).
Despite a 5.5% drop in visitation to 171,000 and fewer visitor nights (down 3.7% to 1.1 million), overall expenditure hit a record $254 million, up 16.6%. Visitors are staying slightly longer (6.6 nights on average) and spending significantly more, with spend per visitor up 23.5% to $1,483 and spend per night up 21.1% to $226.
Market trends show mixed results: the UK (down 5.7%), USA (down 28.1%), France (down 8.7%), and Asia (down 0.9%) declined, while Germany (up 1.5%) and Continental Europe (up 5.9%) recorded growth.
Tim Booth, CEO of Tourism Whitsundays, said the results underline The Whitsundays strength as a premium destination.
“Internationally, we’ve hit a record $254 million in visitor expenditure, even with fewer arrivals. Visitors are clearly recognising the unique value of The Whitsundays, choosing to stay longer and spend more,” said Tim Booth.
“Domestically, it’s important to remember this is just six months of new DoTS data and already we’re seeing more than $400 million in visitor spending. That shows incredible demand and underlines The Whitsundays standing as one of Australia’s most desirable holiday spots.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins said the Whitsundays continues to punch well above its weight as one of Queensland’s tourism powerhouses.
“This growth in visitor spend means more jobs, more small business activity, and more opportunities right across our region, from Bowen to Airlie Beach, from Collinsville to our 74 islands,” he said.
“As we look ahead to projects like the Whitsunday Skyway and our role as host of Olympic sailing in 2032, the future for tourism in the Whitsundays is brighter than ever.”
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