THE State Opposition has called for a tourism plan to boost the Limestone Coast’s tourism economy by $140m within two years.
Shadow Tourism Minister Zoe Bettison said there had yet to be any funding delivered for the State Government’s strategic Regional Visitor Strategy, despite it being released last year.
The strategic plan outlines a range of location-specific initiatives to deliver stronger visitor experiences and job growth within the state’s 11 tourism regions.
Under the plan, a day-tripper driven focus will underpin the Limestone Coast’s tourism blueprint, with a targeted focus on leveraging the Melbourne to Adelaide touring route to further boost increased visitation.
The plan also highlights a move to boost local accommodation numbers by fostering the development of 17 new rooms.
It also says the upgrade of 220 rooms from three to four star will raise the average hotel room yield in the Limestone Coast, which is currently $26 lower than the regional average.
Ms Bettison said local tourism infrastructure and boosting the promotion of regional events such as the Coonawarra Cabernet Celebrations, Generations in Jazz and the Penola Coonawarra Arts Festival should be priorities.
Tourism Minister David Ridgway said the State Government already sponsored the aforementioned events, as well as the Robe Home Brew and Craft Festival and the Mount Gambier Fringe Festival.
He said a feasibility study was currently under way around developing a world-class cycling trail from Adelaide through to Melbourne to further boost visitor numbers.
“The beautiful Limestone Coast is a key focus of our Regional Visitor Strategy, with a range of exciting initiatives already under way to promote tourism and attract domestic, interstate and international visitors to this wonderful part of our state,” he said.
“We are committed to developing the Great Southern Bike Trail, which will be a key driver of economic activity into the region as it winds its way through the picturesque Limestone Coast and will continue to work with operators to develop exciting new experiences and offerings for tourists.
“Independent consultants have been engaged and the South Australian Tourism Commission are expecting a report in late April.
“This report will inform next steps and provide a solid basis for further discussions with local councils, the Federal and Victorian Governments and other stakeholders.”
