General News
28 October, 2024
Go-ahead town hosts tourism industry meet
Movers and shakers across the region's tourism industry have gathered at a networking forum hosted by one of the Wimmera's most go-ahead townships.
Grampians Wimmera Mallee (GWM) Tourism launched their first tourism industry forum at Dimboola Rowing Club on Friday.
Hindmarsh Shire Council CEO Monica Revell said she pushed for Dimboola to host the event, knowing it would also serve as a great showpiece for the shire.
"When I heard GWM Tourism was going to hold a forum in the Wimmera Mallee, I knew Dimboola had to be the first one," she said.
"We have many hidden gems around the shire," she said.
"Many people don't know how much we actually have to offer."
Ms Revell discussed numerous projects that were happening around the shire as well as outlining tourism and visitor numbers.
Shire projects include the Llew Schilling Silo in Rainbow, the construction of Rainbow Rises Event Centre and the 62km Wimmera River Discovery cycing and walking trail between Dimboola and Lake Hindmarsh, which is anticipated to open next month.
GWM Tourism CEO Marc Sleeman said they currently have 66 industry partners working with them in the Wimmera Mallee region.
A board meeting was also held in Dimboola earlier in the day.
"It's important to show what the town has to offer," Mr Sleeman said.
"Nature is a big drawcard in the Wimmera Mallee."
GWM Tourism's marketing manager Georgia Bennett also made a presentation.
The Wimmera Mallee Destination Management Plan was endorsed at the board meeting and is now available for public viewing.
Melbourne-based freelance photographer, digital marketing and social media professional, Rob Embury, taught attendees about photography skills, social media and content creation.
"When it comes to photography, I can easily go down the rabbit hole," he said.
As Time Goes By in Dimboola owner Amy Ward spoke about her journey starting up a river cruise business, the only one in the region.
"I'm reliant on locals and word of mouth at this stage," she said.
"It's good to be unique and open to embrace different ideas."
Ms Ward said the business was currently going through rebranding with a new name, Dimboola River Cruises.
As Time Goes By is the name of the boat.
Between the breaks in the cold and wet weather, guests were able to enjoy networking on the boat.
"It's all about working together and getting tips," Ms Ward said.
Drinks were supplied by local wineries and food catered by Big Bertha, run by Dimboola local Neil Devonport, who used local produce to create the dishes.
"It was great to see so many people here," Dimboola Imaginarium owner Chan Uoy said.