Townsville residents have reason to celebrate as the highly successful Mates Rates tourism program makes its triumphant return, offering unprecedented 50% discounts on some of the region's most popular attractions and experiences.
What is the Mates Rates Program?
The Mates Rates initiative, organized by Tourism Townsville, provides exclusive discounts for locals to explore their own backyard at significantly reduced prices. The program runs from October 28 to November 24, 2024, giving residents nearly a full month to take advantage of the incredible offers.
This marks the third iteration of the popular program, which has previously generated substantial economic benefits for the region. According to Tourism Townsville CEO, Lisa Woolfe, the previous campaign delivered an impressive $1.2 million in direct expenditure to local businesses, demonstrating the program's effectiveness in stimulating the local economy.
Participating Businesses and Attractions
More than 40 local tourism operators have joined the Mates Rates program, offering everything from adventure experiences to cultural attractions at half price. Among the notable participants are:
- Museum of Underwater Art (MOUA)
- Reef HQ Great Barrier Reef Aquarium
- Magnetic Island ferry services
- Various tour operators and adventure experiences
The program specifically targets experiences that locals might not typically consider due to cost barriers, making premium attractions more accessible to the community that supports them year-round.
Economic Impact and Community Benefits
The timing of the Mates Rates program is strategic, falling during what is traditionally a quieter period for tourism operators. By encouraging local participation, businesses can maintain steady revenue streams while building stronger connections with their community.
Tourism Townsville CEO Lisa Woolfe emphasized that the program helps build local advocacy, noting that when residents experience these attractions firsthand, they become powerful ambassadors for the region's tourism offerings.
The previous success of the program demonstrates its dual benefit: residents enjoy discounted access to premium experiences while tourism operators benefit from increased visitation and word-of-mouth marketing within the community.
Bookings for the Mates Rates deals are now open, with residents encouraged to plan their experiences quickly as many popular attractions are expected to sell out rapidly given the substantial 50% discount offering.
