The Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP, today congratulated Yass Valley Council on receiving $10,000 towards the cost of a feasibility study into re-opening the Yass Junction to Yass Town tramway for tourism under the TQUAL Grants program.
Australian Government funding will examine the potential to operate tourism tram services along the route which runs between the Sydney to Melbourne train line and the town centre.
“This report will not only be of great interest to history and train buffs, it will assist the Council and community to make a decision about the best use of the tramway,” Minister Ferguson said.
“Yass has an impressive line up of tourism experiences including galleries, wineries, walks and caving. I am pleased to see the Council and community looking at new ways to expand the experiences on offer for visitors. Local businesses benefit from visitors staying longer and spending locally.”
Through the TQUAL Grants program the Australian Government is investing almost $8.3 million towards seventy innovative tourism projects across Australia. These targeted investments assist the industry to explore new market opportunities, expand the range of services they can offer, promote growth and contribute to job creation throughout the Australian tourism industry.
The Australian Government is also investing in $40 million towards road infrastructure in the region through the Nation Building Infrastructure program, which improves access to the region for visitors and locals alike.
“Our investments in accessible, safe, and efficient road infrastructure will support this region’s economic development well into the future. With upgrades to roads throughout the region, Canberra residents will find it easier than ever to take a trip up the Barton Highway to Yass.”
The Australian Government’s ‘There’s Nothing Like Australia’ $150 million tourism marketing program is helping to boost the profile of destinations like Yass across Australia.
“By using the print, television and online social media, the campaign is taking the images and stories of everyday Australians to the world.
“Small businesses in Yass can take advantage of the campaign’s free online tools to benefit from the marketing power of Tourism Australia and the campaign.” Minister Ferguson said.
“The tourism industry has really got behind this campaign and now the Australian Government is providing opportunities to share in its success,” Minister Ferguson said.