Tourism inquiry

By Tania Martin
DANDENONG Ranges Tourism (DRT) has welcomed a State Government inquiry into rural and regional tourism.
Michael Axel of DRT says the inquiry is a great opportunity for people to talk to the Government about the growth of tourism in rural and regional Victoria.
“It’s an opportunity for individual groups and businesses like us (DRT) to talk to government and make a written submission,” he said.
Gembrook MP Tammy Lobato says the inquiry will investigate a number of important issues such as the economic benefits of tourism, the effects of drought and fire on regional tourism, and the effectiveness of current tourism marketing.
She called on all hills businesses that rely on tourism to make a submission to the inquiry.
“Local municipalities and anyone else with an interest in rural and regional tourism should also take part,” Ms Lobato said.
“I urge local operators and community groups to have their say.”
Mr Axel said DRT has been working on an awareness campaign with Tourism Victoria for the Dandenong Ranges, but that the inquiry would be a great opportunity to highlight the need for more marketing for the region.
He said the inquiry was also an opportunity for the Government to look at improving its tourism marketing.
“There is a need to refine the marketing focus and look at issues such as quality control rather than just focusing on advertising,” he said.
“It will also be our chance to make a plea for more money for marketing in the Dandenongs.
After submissions are assessed at a hearing, a report will be brought back to Parliament, which will outline recommendations on how tourism can be enhanced in rural and regional Victoria.
Submissions are now open and close on Friday, 1 June.
Mr Axel said DRT would not only be making a submission to the inquiry but hopes to appear before the committee at the hearing.