SEPTEMBER 23, 2015: THE move to appoint a dedicated minister for tourism is a win for the Whitsundays.I welcome the appointment of Senator the Hon Richard Colbeck to this role, and I have already issued an invitation to the new minister to visit one of the country’s biggest tourism drawcards, the beautiful Whitsundays.I have invited Senator Colbeck to meet with industry representatives so he can learn more about the north and hear about any concerns or issues they may have.The Tasmanian senator will have a good understanding of the tourism industry.The direct and indirect contribution of tourism to the Tasmanian economy is the highest in the country at just under 10 per cent.It’s a state that lives and breathes tourism, so Senator Colbeck has first-hand knowledge of the importance of the industry.I look forward to showing him some of the attractions of the north, and ensuring the tourism industry in the Whitsundays has his ear.