Tourism Tropical North Queensland (TTNQ) Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said the region’s tour operators had responded swiftly to the weather event to ensure the safety of guests and infrastructure and were working just as quickly to reopen.

“Today we welcome the Seven Seas Explorer with 700 passengers disembarking to experience some of the more than 2000 tours our region has to offer,” he said.

“These cruise passengers are joining about 4500 visitors across the region with 1500 people currently staying in hotels in the Cairns CBD.

”Tropical North Queensland had $20 million worth of cancellations, losing about 10% of our Christmas and New Year bookings in the leadup to Cyclone Jasper and will record about $60 million in losses next week.

“We anticipate an influx of last-minute bookings when the sun comes out next week with great conditions forecast for the reef operators.

“The Cairns Aquarium and Cairns Koalas and Creatures at The Pier – the newest attraction in town – have been keeping visitors dry while showcasing the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of the tropics.

“Today (Friday) Quicksilver’s Pro Dive has returned to the Great Barrier Reef and ferries are taking guests to Fitzroy Island Resort.

“Visitors are excited to see the rivers in full swing and adventure seekers are already white water rafting on the Tully River today with the Cairns Adventure Group.

“Chasing waterfalls and tubing tours are the hot ticket items in summer when our rainforest rivers are at their most spectacular.

“The Barron Falls is Tropical North Queensland’s biggest attraction after heavy rain – the feeling of the mist on your face as the water thunders into Barron Gorge is extraordinary.

“From tomorrow (Saturday) visitors can experience the falls from Skyrail Rainforest Cableway’s spectacular The Edge Lookout.

“The Palm Cove strip is back in business with accommodation providers including The Reef House welcoming guests and their in-house restaurant along with Nu Nu restaurant and the cafes reopening.

“All accommodation and attractions are open on the Cassowary Coast and drive visitors are returning to Paronella Park.

“Operators in Port Douglas have been slowed down by power outages but are gradually reopening, while the Daintree region will take a little longer as they wait for the river to subside.”