Region’s tourism operators network for greater success

Around 60 tourism industry representatives from the New England North West gathered in Armidale yesterday to promote tourism in the region.
Member for Northern Tablelands Richard Torbay said nothing but good could come from local tourism operators and bodies collaborating and working more closely together.
“Everyone gains if we promote our regional well and offer interesting experiences and attractions for visitors,” he said.
“They are likely to stay longer or plan holidays here if they know there is a lot to do and see while they are here and operators cooperate to promote and recommend each other’s attractions.”
The Symposium at the Armidale Bowling Club is the first to involve all tourism operators, industry participants, government organisations and associations in the New England North West region.
Mr Torbay said New England North West received more than 3.1 million overnight visitors last year.
The number of domestic visitors to the region increased by 4.1 per cent last year, and international visitors saw a 7.7 per cent boost.
“Visitors injected more than $651 million into the New England North West region last year, so efforts by the tourism industry to boost these numbers even further are very welcome,” he said.
Speakers at today’s event include Catherine de Vrye, Logan Nathan, Paul Young, Linda Hailey and Rose Wright.
They spoke on marketing strategies, using social media, online bookings, linking to the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse and promoting local produce as elements of successful tourism promotion.