THE Kooralbyn Valley resort is inviting city folk to the country for an Ekka themed long weekend as the business looks to bounce back from three months without trade during the coronavirus pandemic.
Events manager Cathy Briant said the business would run a special event each month to bring people back to the resort and boost jobs.
She said the business was looking to attract visitors from across Queensland after the international market was wiped out when travel restrictions were enforced in March.
"About 70 per cent of the market here was the Asian market coming to this resort," Ms Briant said.
"We are focusing on the local market now, the Queenslanders, and people we can get from interstate when borders aren't locked."
Ms Briant said the Ekka getaway, to be held over two weekends in August, was a chance for the resort to get started again and reengage Queensland travellers.
"We thought it could bring more people to the resort and actually show them the other things we have to offer," she said.
"People like to have fun at Ekka time so I thought the promotion would go well because it is a country experience when you go to the Ekka in the city.
"We wanted to bring a bit of country to the city (people) still and keep the business going because we were closed for a while."
A buggy kangaroo tour, bush dancing, farm animal experience, whip cracking and boomerang throwing are all part of the Ekka package.
Prices vary depending on the length of stay but the event has been spread out across two weekends to suit different public holiday dates.
Ms Briant said people were missing the fun of events and the resort's jam-packed schedule was a chance to bring people back.
"We are just trying to keep jobs going here," Ms Briant said.
"It is a big resort and we are working with half (the normal) staff at the moment because of COVID.
"There are no events out there so if we create events in our resort, more people will come because they want an event."
The Ekka event runs from August 8 to 10 and 14 to 16.
To book a spot, visit thekooralbynvalley.com.au or call 5544 6688.
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