Sunferries has launched a new campaign to coincide with the release of Sunferries Travel day tours urging locals to "Head East" to Magnetic Island for their next day trip or holiday.   

The campaign showcases the ease and affordability of escaping to Magnetic Island to relax or enjoy quality family time, rather than heading north or south. 

Sunferries Marketing Manager Julie Johnston says the fresh new campaign is timely as people take into consideration cost and safety when planning a getaway.

"We want to remind people that they can holiday overseas at home without breaking the bank" said Ms Johnston.

"Our new day tours make it easy for locals to experience Maggie as they never have before, and with plenty of accommodation options you can stay on for the weekend or a holiday."  

The new advertising strategy is also set to benefit Island businesses, a welcome boost after a quiet start to the year with wild weather keeping visitors at bay.

"By partnering with Magnetic Island businesses, we are able to showcase what there is to see and do on Maggie, but importantly we can also act as a distribution channel for smaller operators who may not otherwise be able to promote their product to a wide audience" said Ms Johnston.

Endota Day Spa owner Nadine Gallagher is already seeing the results of including her product in the Island Spa Escape day tour, with sales coming in before advertising has commenced.

"With a limited advertising budget, having our product included in a day tour is an excellent way for us to reach new customers, and it gives Sunferries something exciting to promote on Magnetic Island" Ms Gallagher said.

The "Head East" campaign complements the current Townsville Enterprise "Shout Out" campaign to entice locals to invite friends and relatives to visit the region.

Television, radio and print advertisements for the Head East campaign will commence locally from the 22^nd March with plans to launch the campaign regionally in coming months.