Convention addresses key challenges in regional tourism
March 11th, 2010
The Australian Regional Tourism Convention, now in its tenth year, is the only opportunity for grass roots, regional practitioners to discuss and debate with policy makers. This year’s Convention will be held from the 16th to 20th August in the Yarra Valley and Dandenongs region of Victoria.
Tourism is the lifeblood of many of our regional communities and for too long has been undervalued as an economic driver” said Ms Jennifer Hutchison, Chair of the Australian Regional Tourism Network (ARTN) in a recent statement.
“The Jackson Report commissioned by the Australian Federal Government, identified that around 47% of all tourism expenditure occurs in the regions. Further to this, research conducted by the Government’s Department of Resources, Energy & Tourism found that tourism expenditure in regional communities in 2008/2009 totalled more than $33 billion and that tourism employs more workers than agriculture, forestry and fishing combined. Just imagine the economic and social impact if this tap was turned off” she said.
“Now, more than ever, tourism operators, destination managers and local, state and federal government decision makers need to be better informed to ensure that regional Australia doesn’t lose market share to cheap overseas destinations” said Ms Hutchison.
Each year the ARTN, in association with its partners, initiates a gathering of industry professionals and policy makers to discuss the latest research and industry trends and their impact and application on the future of regional tourism. The theme of the Convention is ‘Australia’s Regions – Ready, Resilient and Robust’ and will attract delegates from all states and territories and all sectors of the industry.
The Convention will address key industry challenges such as how to develop destinations to meet visitor expectations and explore how destinations can learn from Victoria’s recovery from the Black Saturday bushfires of 2009. Practical case studies exemplifying practical solutions will sit alongside presentations by tourism research and forecasting experts.
The Yarra Valley and Dandenongs region of Victoria presents some very worthy examples of industry best practise in a range of fields.
Registrations for the Convention opened this week to an eager industry keen to learn how to develop their destination successfully and sustainably. Registration information can be found online at www.regionaltourism.com.au or by phoning 02 6620 .3785.