Practical Tourism

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In a free ranging talk, Mr Sanders, gave details of his extensive work in the tourism industry - both here and in London, in public and private operations.

He argued that in rural areas like the Wimmera Mallee, small communities need to pool their resources and activities to maximise the tourist dollar and benefits.

The class definition of a tourist - some one who spends money in another town other than their own, was amply demonstrated by Mr Sander's statistics. In a day,in our region, including overnight, a visitor will spend about $A196. A day tripper will spend $A61. Withon our region tourists spend $A156 million. We have a gtreat draw card, in the Grampians. South Australians are attracted to Victoria and must traverse our region first.

You must have a market plan and identify your market -Melbourne and South Australia. Interantional tourists make uponly 3% of our visitors.

Any tourist project must have: Location, Location, Location!!!

Some locals feel resentment against the tourists. These people ned to remember that as locals, they have all year access to the new facilities and services.

This area could market itself as 'outback', close to Melbourne and South Australia.

Events are important. They bring sponsors. Insurance is a great problem, the shire losing last year two activities that were up to 80 years old.