Murrindindi Shire Council is developing a Tourism and Events Strategy to enhance our Shire’s approach to attracting tourists and to increase the value of tourism to our local economy.
Councillor Jackie Ashe said the tourism industry – which comprises of retail, accommodation, cafes and restaurants, cultural and recreational services – is really important to our region.
“In 2017, tourism was the fifth biggest industry in Murrindindi Shire representing 8.4 percent of our whole economy. Last year, it brought $94 million into the Shire each year and employed almost 500 people,” Ashe said.
“Council is looking at ways it can work with local businesses, regional partners and communities to support a diverse visitor experience which promotes our natural assets, the great things to see and do and the vibrant range of events on offer in our Shire.
“We’re having conversations with different community groups businesses and industry people to make sure that each of the destinations that comprise Murrindindi Shire is considered in the Strategy.
“We’re talking about all the different products, infrastructure and events we have now and what might work in the future. We’re looking at ways we can individually and collectively support visitation growth, improved visitor experience and increased awareness of the region. Every conversation is bringing to light new ideas and insights!
“We’d really love to get more of the community’s input so that we can be sure the Strategy we develop and roll out truly represents our shared vision. We want to hear from you about what opportunities for product and event development you think we should be focusing on.
“We’d love your thoughts about what makes Murrindindi Shire really special as a visitor destination. It’s also important we understand what issues and barriers to tourism and events growth you have experienced so we can make it even better.
There’s two community engagement sessions coming up – one at Yea Shire Hall on Wednesday 21 November from 11.30am to 1pm and another at the Marysville Community Centre on Friday 23 November from 11am until 12.30pm.
Council will also be putting up a survey up on Council’s website with some questions about the challenges and opportunities for tourism and events in Murrindindi.
“I really encourage you to take advantage of this opportunity to share your ideas and insights about events and tourism with Council so that we can plan the future of tourism in Murrindindi Shire together,” Ashe said.
“To RSVP to one of these sessions, phone Council on (03) 5772 0333 or email tourismandevents@murrindindi.vic.gov.au. Don’t forget to check out #discoverdindi on Facebook and Instagram and sign-up to our weekly ‘What’s On Murrindindi’ e-newsletter to see some of what Council is doing in the tourism space now.”
