Christmas Island tries to shake detention centre shadow

Christmas Island tries to shake detention centre shadow
By admin


Christmas Island is attempting to shake the negative perceptions associated with its detention centre in a bid to lure tourists to explore its natural wonders.

The island, located to the north west of Australia, has long been a destination for those seeking refuge due to its proximity to Indonesia. As a result, the Australian government set up a processing facility there in 2001.

However, subsequent media coverage of the centre has overshadowed the island’s other features, deterring many potential visitors from making the trip, marketing manager Linda Cash revealed.

“We’re averaging about 15 to 20 visitors a week,” she said.

This is despite its wealth of natural attractions including world class diving, the world renowned crab migration and the highest number of endemic species in the whole of Australia.

But even though the tourists aren’t coming, the infrastructure is there to welcome them.

Virgin Australia flies to the destination four times weekly to cater to government officials that frequently make the journey, with a number of accommodation options in the basic and mid-range.

“But we are careful not to oversell the destination,” Cash said. “It’s rough and ready and definitely one for the more adventurous tourist.”

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