APRIL marks the official start of the tourist season in the outback and retail outlets are staring down the road for the first signs of the caravan influx with more than the usual degree of desire.
Spending has been severely curtailed in western Queensland towns by the crippling ongoing drought and turnover is down dramatically as the bank accounts of sheep and cattle producers go further into the red.
According to Outback Queensland Tourism Association general manager Peter Homan, tourism has already overtaken the sheep industry in dollars generated for western Queensland and is second only to beef as an economic driver.
"Tourism is now essential to our outback towns," he said. "Graziers can't afford to spend, which is causing a lot of suffering to retailers, but tourism can provide that shortfall."
One of the strong messages being delivered is that there is sufficient water in outback towns for both tourists and residents.
"Tourists can shower everywhere they go and be reassured they won't be taking away precious resources," Peter said.
"We do a lot of shows with city consumers and we're not finding that drought is putting anyone off coming to the west. Our message is, come out and help us."
It's a comment reinforced by a number of people in recent days, including Maranoa federal MP Bruce Scott in federal parliament, who issued an invitation to people in southern states to "come to the great outback of Queensland this winter".
He urged people to fire up their Winnebagos, caravans and camper trailers and see the "vision splendid, something that you will live with for the rest of your life".
"People will welcome you, and you would do a great deal for our economy, which we would welcome as well."
Outback Queensland Tourism Association board member Rob Chandler agreed.
"We are telling people it would be much better if they jump in their motorhome and spend their cold hard cash and support our economy that way, just by coming for a holiday.
"Over the last couple of years we've gone from a normal drought to exceptional circumstances - local businesses are hurting very much."
With a lower Australian dollar and slightly lower fuel prices, overseas travel has become less affordable and the signs for a tourism influx this season are good, according to Mr Homan.
"The stock market is stronger and so self-funded retirees are more confident at the moment too," he said.
The OQTA has initiated an Outback Mates program to roll out the red carpet and welcome people into visitor information centres to make the most of their trip.
"More and more people are researching their holidays on their iPads but the stark reality of the bush is that you still need that local engagement.
"We can tell them where the best fishing spots are or where to get their gas cylinder filled."
A second phase, not planned for this year, will include loyalty cards and discounts to participating businesses.
