Inverell's Windsong Travel hasn't been immune from the heartache caused by the pandemic, and while they're appreciative of government efforts to boost the travel industry, one agent says they've "missed the mark".
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Manager Marnie Wade said she was grateful for any money the government put into the industry, but was worried about their other measures aiming to stimulate tourism.
It comes as MP Barnaby Joyce said travel agents in the New England would benefit from sharing in additional funding support of $130 million from the Coalition Government, with Round 2 of the COVID-19 Consumer Travel Support Program opening later this month.
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Eligible travel agents and tour operators who have received a payment under Round One may be entitled to a second payment between $7500 and $100,000.
Speaking with enthusiasm for where things were going locally, Ms Wade's excitement was palpable to get back out - with a tour of the Kimberleys fast approaching.
"It's been really nice to see familiar faces come back in, and it is definitely picking up," Ms Wade enthused.
"But I think [the governments] missed the mark with everything they've offered to us - they've released the half price flight sale, and don't get me wrong I'm grateful for any money that goes in, but they launched that while everyone was off for Easter - that's pretty insulting to our industry," she said.
She did say it was "fantastic" to see hotels selling out in locations where subsides have been offered, but it added another layer of stress for agents.
For example, when organising a trip in a town used to having coaches for large international groups, now trying to supply hire cars to 20 individual or couple travellers.
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