Meander Valley has become the latest region to launch its Destination Action Plan, outlining the strategies in place to manage future tourism challenges.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The state government’s Destination Action Plans focus on 32 regions across the state, including St Helens, Flinders Island and other regions.
Business leaders, community groups and tourism experts workshopped the plan for increasing tourist numbers, stay duration, and tourist satisfaction for the Great Western Tiers and Meander Valley.
Premier Will Hodgman launched the plan at Trowunna Wildlife Park on Wednesday, saying the three-year plan would create a vision of the Meander Valley becoming the state’s short walks destination, making the most of the region’s "breathtaking natural environment, rich heritage and local history”.
“It also provides the blueprint to promote the attractions of the region, to produce a calendar of events and develop a marketing plan,” he said.
“We have partnered with local groups and tourism bodies to produce the plan and make sure it captures the essence of the community.”
The plan covers the Great Western Tiers World Heritage Area, focusing on its walking trails, wildlife, Indigenous and European history, and artistic communities.
Deloraine’s historical streets is also a key focus to drive visitor numbers and increase the length of stays, while Mole Creek’s iconic limestone caves is another primary tourism hotspot.
Meander Valley council mayor Craig Perkins said the plan was important for the region as tourism accounts for about 5 per cent of the economy and 10 per cent of employment, and would be a growing industry into the future.
Cr Perkins said key priorities included ensuring tracks and trails were upgraded and maintained with quality signage to help visitors find “hidden gems”.
“The plan was developed by the local tourism industry ... the strong sense of ownership will help deliver economic outcomes and support the small businesses,” he said.
