We're tourists in our own backyard

Captain Mike Jarvis sits next to his Pterodactyl helicopter. Tourist day trippers are on the up.

Claudia Baxter

SPENDING your holidays at home has become a more attractive prospect for Ipswich families, who are taking the chance to explore their own backyard.

Statistics from Tourism Queensland indicate the trend for holidaying at home was on the rise for the year ending September 2011 for residents around the greater Brisbane region, which includes Ipswich.

There was a 23% increase in the number of Brisbane and Ipswich residents day tripping in and around the region.

Research also revealed an 8% increase in residents holidaying in and around the Brisbane region during the same time.

A Tourism Queensland spokesman said traditionally the south-east corner benefited strongly from day trip and short break visitors out of Brisbane during the summer holidays.

"Ipswich tends to be a strong day-trip option, especially for families with young children, with great attractions appealing to this market."

Captain Mike Jarvis, of Pterodactyl Helicopters, said day trips had become more popular towards the end of last year.

"We are actually seeing a bit more of that," Mr Jarvis said.

"It's hard to put a number on it but we feel there is more, I don't know why."

He said a lot of day trippers had opted out of international holidays in favour of staying at home.

Tourism and Libraries Committee chairman Councillor David Pahlke said Ipswich offered a complete tourism mix from family-friendly fun, outdoor adventure action and a historical snapshot.

"Ipswich is home to a vast array of attractions providing the platform for many fun-filled days," he said.

Cr Pahlke said the Discover Ipswich website provided visitors with access services they need for their Ipswich stay.

For more information on everything Ipswich go www.discoveripswich.com.au.