Mond

Wednesday, 20 December 2006

SYKES CALLS FOR IMMEDIATE FIRE RECOVERY ASSISTANCE

Immediate implementation of a Tourism promotion campaign using local businesses was one of the key requests made in Parliament this week by Nationals Member for Benalla, Bill Sykes.

Dr Sykes highlighted to Parliamentarians, many of whom are Melbourne based, the impact of the current bushfires on farmers, businesses and communities in North East Victoria.

Dr Sykes said, “It is critical that the Government immediately implements a tourist promotion campaign to get visitors back to our beautiful North East Victoria.

“The post 2003 fire promotion campaign provides a good basis for a 2007 campaign. However this time, local businesses should be used to develop and conduct that campaign, unlike last time when the vast majority of the $2m campaign budget went to city based businesses.”

Dr Sykes continued, “My phone and email are running hot with desperate pleas for assistance to businesses which rely heavily on tourists.

“This fire related economic shock compounds the already difficult times being experienced because of drought, severe frosts and the closure of the tobacco industry.”

Dr Sykes also requested financial grants for businesses as occurred post 2003 fires and incentives such as the $1,000 tank rebate being made available to all households – not just those on reticulated water systems. Immediate reimbursement of Local Government fire related costs, which in the case of Mansfield Shire already exceeds $250,000, and immediate assistance with fencing costs are other urgent needs according to Dr Sykes.

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989