Partnership to boost tourism

Tourism and the visitor economy in Moorabool will receive a boost, under a new Visitor Economy Partnership, approved by Council at its latest Ordinary Meeting.

The partnership includes Moorabool Shire and neighbouring councils along with representatives from the tourism industry and the state government.

Moorabool Shire Council will collaborate with nearby councils such as Pyrenees Shire Council and Ballarat City Council, helping coordinate tourism efforts in the region after a difficult few years for the visitor economy.

Membership in the Visitor Economy Partnership will cost $30,000 annually for the next four years, and after this period membership will be reviewed.
The partnership will operate to attract and support visitors to the region, provide business support, and fund marketing and products.

It aligns with the State Government’s Visitor Economy Recovery and Reform Plan that supports the transition of the existing network of regional tourism boards into a new network of Visitor Economy Partnerships.

Mayor Cr Rod Ward said joining the partnership would result in great benefits for Moorabool in the tourism and visitor economy space.

“We have so much to offer in our shire – active and passive recreation on our walking trails and in state parks, Lal Lal Falls, Kryal Castle, historic towns, art galleries – there are so many things to experience, and this partnership will provide an opportunity for operators to expand and attract more visitors to our great region,” Cr Ward said.

“I am very pleased Council voted to sign on.”

Council is currently developing its own Visitor Economy Strategy, which will be available for public exhibition following Council endorsement.