THE Regional Tourism Organisation for the Limestone Coast will move from the Limestone Coast Local Government Association (LCLGA) to Regional Development Australia- Limestone Coast (RDALC), marking a new chapter for tourism leadership and collaboration across the region.<\/p>\n
Under the new governance arrangements, RDALC will partner with the South Australian Tourism Commission to support regional tourism development.<\/p>\n
The new structure reflects a shared commitment to strengthening the visitor economy, aligning tourism with broader regional development priorities, and clarifying leadership roles within the Limestone Coast.<\/p>\n
The Limestone Coast is one of South Australia\u2019s premier tourism destinations, attracting visitors with its world-renowned natural attractions, premium food and wine, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming communities.<\/p>\n
Bringing the Regional Tourism Organisation role within RDALC aims to strengthen links between tourism, investment, workforce development and small business support, helping maximise opportunities for operators across the region.<\/p>\n
LCLGA President Lynette Martin OAM said the association was proud to have supported the sector as the region\u2019s recognised tourism organisation for more than a decade.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe Limestone Coast Local Government Association has been pleased to serve as the recognised Regional Tourism Organisation for the Limestone Coast under the State\u2019s tourism structure for more than a decade,\u201d Mayor Martin said.<\/p>\n
\u201cOver the past five years, the economic value of tourism in the Limestone Coast has grown by 57 per cent, with visitor spend now exceeding $660 million a year. This has surpassed both our 2025 target of $479 million and our long-term 2030 target of $609 million. We now welcome more visitors than the Barossa and Kangaroo Island combined.\u201d<\/p>\n
Mayor Martin said that, with the Destination Management Plan towards 2030 now complete, the change marked the final stage of LCLGA\u2019s shift to an advocacy-focused operating model, while ensuring the Regional Tourism Organisation role would be held by a trusted and capable partner in RDALC.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs the industry continues to grow and evolve, this change provides an opportunity to better integrate tourism with broader regional economic development while maintaining strong collaboration and allowing LCLGA to remain focused on advocacy, including for the tourism sector,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
\u201cLCLGA sees tourism as central to building a resilient and diverse Limestone Coast economy by creating sustainable business growth, supporting local entrepreneurship, and generating year-round employment opportunities.<\/p>\n
\u201cLCLGA will continue to advocate strongly for the Limestone Coast tourism sector and work in step with RDALC as the Regional Tourism Organisation on key projects.\u201d<\/p>\n
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast chair Robyn Verrall welcomed the opportunity to lead the next phase of tourism support and development in the Limestone Coast.<\/p>\n
\u201cTourism is a significant economic driver for the Limestone Coast, supporting local businesses, creating jobs and strengthening regional communities. Housing the Regional Tourism Organisation within RDALC will enable a more integrated approach to promoting investment, supporting operators and growing the visitor economy,\u201d Ms Verrall said.<\/p>\n
\u201cLCLGA has laid strong foundations for tourism in the Limestone Coast, and we’re proud to build on that legacy. Together, we’ll continue to champion our region and ensure tourism remains a key driver of economic growth.<\/p>\n
\u201cImportantly, the change will not affect service delivery, regional destination marketing or support for local tourism operators. Existing partnerships, programs and collaborative initiatives will continue throughout the handover, with a focus on continuity and strong engagement with industry and local councils.\u201d<\/p>\n
The handover is expected to be completed over the coming months, with both organisations working closely to ensure a smooth transition.<\/p>\n
The Limestone Coast tourism industry remains central to the region\u2019s economic future, and both organisations and the SATC are committed to ensuring the Regional Tourism Organisation continues to deliver strong outcomes for visitors, businesses and communities.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
THE Regional Tourism Organisation for the Limestone Coast will move from the Limestone Coast Local Government Association (LCLGA) to Regional Development Australia- Limestone Coast (RDALC), marking a new chapter for tourism leadership and collaboration across the region. Under the new governance arrangements, RDALC will partner with the South Australian Tourism Commission to support regional tourism […]<\/p>\n