Broome gets tourism boost as low cost airfares are quickly snapped up

Discounted Qantas airfares for flights between Perth and Broome starting next month are showing signs of bolstering tourism in the Kimberley.

Premier Mark McGowan said at Cable Beach yesterday that about 2000 bookings had been snapped up since the announcement in May of the lower priced plane tickets.

The weekend fares will be available at $199 one-way during high season (from August 17 to October 16, and June 21 next year to August 17 next year) and $179 during low season (October 17 to June 20).

Mr McGowan said the State Government was working with Broome businesses to ensure people who bought the cheap flights could also get discount offers, to create more affordable holidays.

He encouraged traders and tourist operators in Broome and the region to get on board with the initiative.

“The local businesses are taking advantage of it and what (they) need to do is make sure they have products available that appeal to tourists,” Mr McGowan said.

“I look forward to a new renaissance in tourism here in Broome and across the Kimberley and that means more jobs for local people.”

The Government has also committed $7 million to dredge the Broome port, allowing all-tide access for cruise ships from next year.