Limestone Coast Tourism Increase

Friday, 19 August 2005

The Limestone Coast's popularity as a tourist destination has increased over the past year.

A national visitor survey has indicated visitors have increased 15.1 per cent from the year leading up to March 2005, with the caravan and camping sector having a big impact on this growth.

Limestone Coast Tourism regional marketing manager Peter Abbott said although the figure was susceptible to fluctuations, it was used as a guide by the organisation.

"Clearly the past year has been good, and we have had a big influx," he said.......

.....Mr Abbott said the gateway to the coast, Tailem Bend, had received benefits, particularly after the television show Postcards was aired and a feature on Old Tailem Town appeared in the SA Motor Magazine.

Mr Abbott said for towns further along, such as Tintinara and Coonalpyn, they needed more people driving to make the most of their biggest asset, the highway.

"We are currently looking at targeting drivers and giving them further benefits," Mr Abbott said.

"We want to make places attractive to 'break the drive and stay alive', so they make the most of cafes, etcetera along the highway," he said.

Limestone Coast Tourism has also advertised heavily in Victoria, particularly through television, and encouraged visitors with cheap fuel offers.

Mr Abbott said they had made a concerted effort to add value to being a member.

"People involved in Limestone Coast Tourism should have economic benefits, through both promotion and support," he said.

Despite positive feedback from the survey, Mr Abbott said the organisation had some concerns, including getting middle aged (25 to 45) or indulgence travellers to drive and not fly.

"These groups seem to fly between capital cities instead of driving, so it's not all fantastic," he said.

At the organisation's annual general meeting on August 12, it was noted member numbers had grown by 72 to more than 320 members.

The first meeting of the new board will be held today at the Naracoorte Town Hall.

Murray Valley Standard.