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Bass Coast Hosts Regional Cultural Tourism Meeting

Recently developed Regional Tourism Strategy Plan to begin

By Carol McCormack - 1st July 2002 - Back to News

Representatives from seven Gippsland councils met at Bass Coast Shire Council’s Wonthaggi office last week (Monday 24 June) to discuss the future of cultural tourism in the region.

Arts, Culture and Tourism officers from the shires of Bass Coast, Baw Baw, East Gippsland, Latrobe City, South Gippsland and Wellington spoke about a recently developed Regional Tourism Strategy Plan.

The Plan highlights the opportunities for marketing the region’s wealth of cultural activities.

"Most visitors to the region, especially Bass Coast, come here for the spectacular environment and the recreational opportunities that are offereds such as surfing, fishing and walking," said Jenny Churchill, Arts and Leisure Coordinator with Bass Coast Shire Council.

"This Regional Plan is a strategy for marketing the important cultural activities and attractions that take place here," she said.

Jenny explained that the cultural activities and attractions could include museums, historic sites, performing arts companies, festivals, galleries and art studios.

The Plan provides a framework for development of the cultural tourism industry and the successful marketing of it to Gippsland communities and the wider tourism market.

The strategy aims to:
· develop sustainable cultural tourism in Gippsland
· increase visitor numbers and length of stay
· increase employment and participation in the cultural industry
· assist the development of market ready product
· enhance the cultural experience of visitors and residents

"All Gippsland councils recognise the importance of tourism to the regional; economy," said Jenny. "This plan explains how the cultural sector has the potential to contribute to the overall growth of tourism."

"Cultural tourism not only has the potential to increase visitor numbers, but also the length of time that people stay in the region," explained Jenny. "The result is a positive economic impact on Bass Coast and the region as a whole."

The Gippsland Local Government Network (GLGN) adopted the Regional Tourism Strategy Plan at a meeting on Friday 28 June.

The Plan will go before Bass Coast Shire Council at a Council meeting on Wednesday 17 July.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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