Rural Councils Victoria has joined a chorus welcoming the State Government’s $465-million Victorian Tourism Recovery Package to help the tourism sector bounce back in rural and regional Victoria. 

RCV chair Mary-Ann Brown said the government response came after an ‘incredibly’ challenging year for tourism in rural and regional Victoria.

“We have been speaking with the government for some time about creating a scheme that helps Victorians enjoy Victoria and we are delighted that this investment is now being made,” she said.  

“We are also pleased that the package will help tourism operators of all sizes right across the state.”

The State Budget 2020-21 also includes a multi-million-dollar spend in upgrading visitor facilities at environmental attractions across the state, including a $19-million allocation for Grampians National Park.

The budget includes $7.76-million to improve visitor experiences at Mackenzie Falls, including connections to nearby campgrounds, $5.8-million to upgrade Brambuk cultural centre in Halls Gap and $5.2-million for additional trail heads for Grampians Peaks Trail.

The government is also providing financial support for Mallee Silo Art Trail, which continues to expand across the Wimmera-Mallee.

The government’s tourism package also includes a $150-million Regional Tourism Investment Fund that will fund nature-based, First Nations, arts and culture, and food and wine tourism projects – priorities identified in the government’s Regional Tourism Review.

An investment of $1.6-million will support First People’s tourism businesses through advisory services, mentoring and digital-skills development.

A further $106.5-million in tourism-industry support will include a $58-million marketing boost for Visit Victoria to promote the state’s appeal to all Australians. This will also target businesses to help them adapt to new conditions and improve digital literacy.

Events support

The government has also renewed its Regional Events Fund, allocating $20-million to support major events outside Melbourne.

“The package has several components, ranging from investment in infrastructure, events and a voucher scheme for visitors,” Cr Brown said. 

“We’re really pleased to see support for a range of projects right across Victoria, from the Murray River to the Great Ocean Road and from the Grampians to Wilsons Promontory. 

“The marketing boost for Visit Victoria will help draw visitors from across Victoria and interstate. The announcement, with so many elements working together, is a fantastic and major first step in helping our rural and regional tourism sector recover.

“We look forward to working with the State Government to continue to identify and to address the needs of the tourism sector right across rural and regional Victoria.

“Most of all, we encourage Victorians to enjoy rural Victoria.”

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!

The entire November 25, 2020 edition of AgLife is available online. READ IT HERE!