The Sunshine Coast tourism industry is opening the doors to its biggest local ‘thank you’ yet, inviting residents to holiday like visitors at mates’ rates.
Visit Sunshine Coast has launched Sunny Staycation, a new locals-only campaign rolling out exclusive deals on experiences, dining and accommodation across the region.
The campaign is the industry’s way of giving back to the community that supports it year-round, inviting Sunshine Coast residents to enjoy the perks of living in a world-class tourism destination.
Running throughout February and March, Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Matt Stoeckel said Sunny Staycation coincides with the off-peak tourism period.
“The Sunny Staycation is made by locals, for locals,” Mr Stoeckel said.
“The campaign is all about the tourism industry sharing with locals what makes this region so special.
“We hope locals jump at the chance to enjoy our great attractions, tours, dining and accommodation at mates’ rates.
“Not everyone realises that the tourism industry supports 29,700 local jobs. That’s around one-in-every-seven jobs on the Sunshine Coast.
“Sunny Staycation has been enthusiastically supported by a wide range of operators, including so many of our wonderful small, family-owned businesses, who wanted to say thank you to the community for its ongoing support.”
Following the peak summer period, Mr Stoeckel said the timing was ideal for locals to reset and reconnect with the region.
“We know how popular the region can be during peak holiday times, so this is your chance to take advantage of some great deals and visit the attraction you always drive past or the restaurant you’ve always wanted to try,” he said.
More than 40 deals are available from Caloundra to Tin Can Bay, spanning the Coast, hinterland and everywhere in between.
Deals range from 25 to 50 per cent off some of the Sunshine Coast’s most-loved offerings, including discounted Aussie World annual passes for $109.
Aussie World’s Sebastian Hahn said the family-owned theme park had been part of the Sunshine Coast community for more than 30 years.
“Feeling the support from our local community means knowing people genuinely value what we do, and it gives our team pride, motivation and a strong sense of belonging,” Mr Hahn said.
“It reminds us that we’re trusted and valued, and we are immensely proud to be part of the region’s story and future development.”
10 Toes Brewery venue manager Paul Crozier said its Maroochydore and Buderim venues were offering 30 per cent off tasting paddles, while kids eat free on Saturdays at Buderim throughout the campaign.
“We are so grateful to our locals who keep the local tourism industry thriving long after the visitors go home and everyone gets back into routine,” Mr Crozier said.
“Sunny Staycation is an opportunity for businesses like ours to thank the community and give them a tasty reason to holiday in their hometown outside of peak times.”
Visit Sunshine Coast is the peak tourism body for the Sunshine Coast region, covering the Sunshine Coast, Gympie and Noosa local government areas.
For the full list of Sunny Staycation deals and terms and conditions, visit visitsunshinecoast.com/locals.
