Elsie Adamo
TOURISM outlook numbers across the State hit their lowest point since 2010 at the end of last year, but local accommodation providers are still optimistic about the future.
The latest tourism industry data from the Tourism Industry Council of South Australia (TiCSA) shows business outlook has deteriorated to the second-lowest level since 2010, after further restrictions and uncertainty leaves businesses struggling to stay afloat.
The survey undertaken by 370 businesses across the State for the October to December 2021 quarter suggested that the constantly changing environment and lack of support still posed a threat to the tourism industry.
Michael Kosch, director of Mount Gambier accommodation businesses The Commodore and The Henty, said the outlook seemed bleak last year.
“I would say our numbers through that period up until the borders reopened were terrible,” Mr Kosch said.
“They were very down through that period.”
However, since the borders reopened, Mr Koch said business has grown again.
“We had a very good January, our January was more than 10 per cent better than last year,” he said.
“Even better than January in 2020 or 2019.
“I am actually quite optimistic about the future.
“I think we are through the worst of it.”
While a busy summer was welcome news, Mr Kosch said it would not cover losses from 2021 which were felt strongly in the region.
“The Limestone Coast has suffered significantly compared to other tourist regions,” he said.
“We are fortunately, but unfortunately located so close to the Victorian border that we get smashed by not having that market segment which is traditionally 55 to 60 per cent of our business.
“The Great Ocean Road is a really big tourism drawcard that keeps people on the road between Adelaide and Melbourne.”
Mr Kosch said accommodation numbers are improving, it is a different outlook for restaurants attached to the businesses.
“The capacity restrictions are not the issue, it is the public confidence that they are not prepared to go out,” he said.
“They are too concerned about getting covid or being a close contact.
“Businesses cannot make money at 50 per cent density.
“We need some government confidence and reassurance provided to people so they can go out and live their lives, visit the local pubs or restaurants.”
TiCSA Chief Executive Officer, Shaun de Bruyn said that these results show a desperate need for industry assistance.
“Last quarter’s Barometer reinforces that now, more than ever, our tourism industry needs support to survive, and then recover, from the effects of the pandemic,” Mr De Bruyn said.
“A staggering $2.3 billion has been wiped off the value of our visitor economy since the start of the pandemic.
“As such, we continue to push for further restart and recovery funding for tourism businesses here in SA.”
