Council leads the way to attract thousands to Capricorn Coast businesses over long weekend

Thousands flocked to the Capricorn Coast over the show holiday weekend, resulting in a much-needed boost to many of the Shire’s local businesses.

Deputy Mayor Adam Belot said Council’s decision to move the show holiday from its traditional date in June to August 14 instead, had proved successful with COVID-19 restrictions easing in Queensland.

“The long weekend was a huge success and I commend Council’s decision to support a motion that allowed our local businesses more opportunity to welcome visitors to the beautiful Capricorn Coast,” Cr Belot said.

“The perfect weather saw thousands of people taking advantage of our fantastic Yeppoon Foreshore and CBD over the three-day-weekend, with cafes and restaurants bustling and a significant increase in foot traffic, which local businesses were able to benefit from.”

Portfolio holder of Vibrant Community (Tourism, Events and Culture), Councillor Tanya Lynch said it was the busiest weekend the Yeppoon Town Centre had experienced in some time since COVID-19 had impacted the Shire.

“It was brilliant to see so many people coming out to support local businesses who’ve really needed a cash injection to keep them operational, which keeps local people in jobs and strengthens our local retail and tourism sector," Cr Lynch said. 

“Rockhampton Regional Council’s decision to also move their show holiday date in line with Livingstone’s allowed an even bigger opportunity for visitors outside the Shire to spend the day or weekend at the Capricorn Coast.”