Ministerial Statement: RUG UP AND HEAD OUT WEST: DISCOVER THE BEST OF QUEENSLAND

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Minister for Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations
The Honourable John Mickel

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

RUG UP AND HEAD OUT WEST: DISCOVER THE BEST OF QUEENSLAND?S OUTBACK THIS WINTER


More than half a million Australians are expected to flock to Queensland?s outback this year, with thousands keen to take advantage of Traveltrain Holidays? exclusive rail and holiday packages released earlier this week.

This year rather than driving or flying, Minister for Transport, John Mickel said more domestic travellers were opting to catch The Spirit of the Outback train to discover first-hand the most remote and untouched wilderness Queensland has to offer.

Over 520,000 domestic visitors visited Queensland's outback in 2007, driving the increasingly important economic contribution of tourism to drought-stricken and outback communities.

?Many visitors will travel north in the winter months as it is the best time to discover Queensland?s outback ? from rollicking stockmen, to desert sand dunes and quiet fishing spots ? there is nowhere quite like it,? Mr Mickel said.

Traveltrain Holidays? new Freedom of the Outback package includes return rail travel on The Spirit of the Outback between Brisbane and Longreach with four night?s accommodation in the historical central Queensland town of Longreach, from just $999 per person twin share*.

?What better way to see the people, sights, and endless open spaces of the outback than by a relaxing train journey aboard The Spirit of the Outback,? he said.

The Spirit of the Outback travels from Brisbane, 1325km into the heart of Queensland?s outback, and offers a unique insight into the history and culture of early Australia throughout the 24 hour journey.

A firm favourite amongst Australian and international travellers alike for over 15 years, The Spirit of the Outback boasts a vibrant onboard social atmosphere coupled with spectacular views and relaxing surrounds.

?From the comfort of your sleeper, you'll be amazed at the ever-changing landscape as the train moves from the coast into the heart of the outback with its rugged mountains, wide-open plains and historic towns,? Mr Mickel said.

?The onboard dining is an experience in itself with the restaurant car serving hearty Aussie meals, while the club and lounge cars are ideal for a relaxed drink and story swapping with fellow passengers,? he said.

The Spirit of the Outback journey ends in Longreach where travellers soak up the history and heritage that surrounds the legendary township, home to the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame, Qantas Founders Museum and a wealth of entertainment and warm, country hospitality.

Longreach and the surrounding area is home to a variety of man made and natural attractions, many of which travellers can explore as part of the range of Traveltrain Holidays? outback rail packages.

QR Passenger Services Executive General Manager Andy Taylor said ?Traveltrain Holidays outback packages range from seven to fifteen day adventures and will guarantee an experience that will keep you coming back for more,? Mr Taylor said.

The Freedom of the Outback package includes:
? Return travel on The Spirit of the Outback in a first class sleeper
? Four nights accommodation in Longreach

Plus FREE...
? Meals onboard the train
? Full day Stockman?s Encounter Tour including School of the Air, Agricultural College, Stockman?s Hall of Fame, RM Williams house and show with lunch
? Transfers and entrance to the Qantas Founders Museum (747 and 707 tours extra)
? Thomson River Sunset Dinner Cruise on the Thomson Belle
? Full day Strathmore Station and Ilfracombe Secrets tour including Longreach Sale Yards, Strathmore Station visit, morning tea and lunch, Ilfracombe Historic Shire, Wellshot Centre and Hotel

Book your next outback rail adventure for travel between 14 April and 27 June 2008 today by calling Traveltrain Holidays on 1800 627 655 or visiting www.traveltrain.com.au

ENDS

*Freedom of the Outback package valid for travel from 14 April to 27 June 2008. Onboard meals include breakfast, lunch and dinner (to and from), and afternoon tea (forward journey only). Concession rates apply. Price based on adult twin share per person from Brisbane and is subject to availability.