David Batt (Hinkler, Liberal National Party) Share this | Link to this | Hansard source

Consumer confidence has now fallen to its lowest since records began. Regional areas like Hinkler need urgent support for the tourism and local business sector. In the aftermath of devastating floods and amidst the unfolding fuel crisis, many are feeling the pinch under this government. Delivering hope on the eve of Easter is the rollout of Bundaberg Tourism's new campaign, which captures what locals already know and love about the Bundaberg region—a place that's 'closer than you think' and 'greater than you imagine'. The bold new destination brand typifies our community, and I congratulate all involved in bringing together a reimagined website and coordinated marketing campaign.

I've heard, sadly, that many tourists have cancelled their travel plans to our region because they can't afford fuel. On the other hand, caravanners in Hervey Bay have extended their stay because they're worried about travelling to other regions with such uncertainty over fuel supply. But the Bundaberg Tourism campaign delivers optimism at this tough time. It shares a story shaped by locals for locals and now shared with the rest of Australia, from the Southern Great Barrier Reef to the rich red soils of its hinterland, and by a spirit that is warm, welcoming and just a little bit cheeky. This brand now captures that spirit. It's about real experiences, good humans, moments you can't quite explain but never forget. It's old-school cool reimagined—classic Bundy but better than you remember. Rum, food, heritage, characters—laid-back, no fuss, no filters. So there's the invitation. You'd better visit us. You won't be disappointed. Congratulations to Bundaberg Tourism's Katherine Reid and Ellie Traynor, and the entire team, for developing this campaign.

When it comes to issues impacting regional areas, health care is high on the list. Recently, I met with The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. They've put forward a proposal to give patients in communities like Hinkler greater access to general practice care for less than $3 million a year. The rural pathways program would fund GPs from major cities to spend four weeks each year providing care in country, allowing them to trial rural general practice, build on ongoing relationships with patients and communities, and train in the medical skills they most need. The more GPs who can be supported to provide care to regional areas like Hinkler, the better.

I've talked at length about my commitment to deliver civics education across my electorate of Hinkler, and I'm delivering on my promise to visit every school in my first term. It's especially pleasing to see schools visit us here in Canberra, and I had the pleasure last week to meet with students from the Star of the Sea Catholic School in Torquay. I thank the Prime Minister for also giving some of his time to the students. To the parents, students and teachers of Hinkler wrapping up term 1, stay safe and enjoy the upcoming, well-deserved Easter break.