What's Happening?
Goulburn Region Tourism (GRT), a collaboration of Greater Shepparton, Strathbogie, and Mitchell Shire Local Government Authorities, is actively seeking community input to enhance its tourism offerings. The initiative follows the State Government's announcement
of a $40 billion visitor economy. GRT aims to increase its tourism economy from $337 million to $500 million annually by 2030. Chief Executive Jane Lovell highlighted the region's appeal, including nature experiences, unique towns, and historical sites, as key attractions for interstate visitors. A survey conducted by GRT received 380 responses, which will guide the development of a new digital platform to promote the region. Marketing and industry lead Louise Bannister, who has served as a Mitchell Shire Councillor and Mayor, is spearheading the digital project. The new platform, set to launch in autumn 2026, will feature contributions from local residents, showcasing the region's diverse offerings.
Why It's Important?
The initiative by Goulburn Region Tourism is significant as it aims to substantially boost the local economy by increasing tourism revenue. By engaging the community and leveraging local insights, GRT seeks to create a unique digital presence that differentiates it from other tourism boards in Victoria. This approach not only promotes economic growth but also fosters community involvement and pride in local attractions. The success of this initiative could serve as a model for other regions looking to enhance their tourism sectors. The increased tourism activity is expected to create more employment opportunities and improve the quality of life for residents by attracting more visitors to the area.
What's Next?
Goulburn Region Tourism plans to launch its new digital platform in autumn 2026. In the meantime, the organization is encouraging residents to share their favorite local attractions and activities to be featured on the website. This collaborative effort aims to ensure that the platform accurately represents the region's unique offerings. As the launch date approaches, GRT will likely continue to engage with the community and refine its digital strategy to maximize its impact. The success of this initiative will depend on the active participation of local residents and the effective promotion of the region's attractions to potential visitors.
