MITCHELL Shire Council has banded with Greater Shepparton and Strathbogie councils to create a Goulburn Region Tourism Partnership, supported by the State Government.
The collaborative project is aimed at strengthening and growing the region’s visitor economy, with regional tourism recognised as an important contributor to the economic and social development of regional areas.
The Goulburn region draws in more than two million visitors annually through a range of attractions and events.
The partnership will develop a collaborative approach and strategic framework to the region’s visitor economy through the completion of a series of projects, including engaging the community in the creation of a regional destination management plan, as well as the delivery of an industry skills building program.
Mitchell Shire Council Mayor Fiona Stevens said the region had much to offer tourists.
“The Goulburn region begins only an hour from Melbourne and offers some exceptional attractions and events for visitors to enjoy as day trippers as well as for those who want to explore and experience more with longer stays,” she said.
“The partnership will allow our region to lead the strategic direction of tourism within the Goulburn region and will supply us the recognition and support we need to highlight and share our exceptional offerings.
“We look forward to working with industry, partner councils and State Government on this key project for our region.”
The project will be co-designed by the partner councils and the State Government, and will investigate the region’s place within a state-wide regional tourism network.
Across other regions in Victoria, regional tourism boards act as peak bodies supporting a destination’s local tourism businesses, delivering tourism initiatives and driving visitation to a region.
The Goulburn region is currently not serviced by a regional tourism partnership and the recent pandemic and flood events highlighted the need for a united voice and coordinated approach to support the visitor economy of the region.
Ms Stevens encouraged the tourism industry, local businesses and community members to be involved in the project and provide their local knowledge and expertise of tourism within the region.
