Businesses and tourism to suffer
BUNDABERG tourism has suffered a major blow, according to Bundaberg and North Burnett Tourism chairman Greg Barnes.
“The flooding has had a fairly significant effect on tourism,” Mr Barnes said.
“I spoke to one accommodation provider who had 13 cancellations this week.”
Mr Barnes said the impact would be felt across the state.
“It is going to hurt us, but everyone in Queensland will be hurting,” he said.
“The damage doesn't help the appeal for tourists.”
Mr Barnes urged travellers to still come to the region.
“Definitely still come, but maybe leave it for a week or so until things clear up,” he said.
“The turtles are a major drawcard and we have had record numbers coming to see them this season.”
Bundaberg Chamber of Commerce president Dion Taylor said businesses had also been dealt a harsh blow.
“Some of the businesses will need major renovations and they still need to be paying wages and bills while they're not getting an income,” Mr Taylor said.
“Some are going to really struggle to recover from this financially.”
Mr Taylor said he had been told several businesses were not insured against flooding.
“Unfortunately a large number of businesses who didn't receive any water damage will still be affected,” he said.
