Opposition questions the Cook Labor government's decision regarding Horizontal Falls tourism, citing economic concerns. Government responds by stating they are transitioning the tourism experience and retaining access.

AnsweredQoN 182Legislative Council
Asked
19 March 2024
Portfolio
Tourism

QuestionView source ↗

TOURISM
— HORIZONTAL FALLS
182. Hon NEIL THOMSON to the minister representing the
Minister for Tourism:
I refer to the Cook Labor government's
decision to ban tour operators from traversing the Kimberley's world-renowned
Horizontal Falls.
(1) Why did the
Cook Labor government close an experience that brings millions into the economy
and puts Western Australia on the world tourism map?
(2) Will the Cook Labor government's
closure have a negative financial impact on tour operators?
(3) Will the Cook
Labor government's closure have a negative economic impact on the
economy in Broome and the Kimberley?

AnswerView source ↗

I thank the honourable member for
some notice of the question. The following answer is provided on behalf of the
Minister for Tourism.
(1)–(3) The
state government is working to transition the tourism experience at Horizontal
Falls. The fact is that many operators have already begun to transition their
product away from traversing the falls following extensive consultation over
the last 12 months. Tourism will remain a key value of the marine park, with
access to the surrounding waters and land being retained for visitors and
licensed operators.

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