|
|
Information centres
to boost tourism
The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) has announced a three-year initiative aimed at boosting tourism in regional areas.
The proposal is to tap into the potential of accredited Visitor Information Centres (VICs).
Minister for Regional Development and Tourism, Gail Gago, said there were 45 accredited VICs in the State.
“While the trend towards tourists researching and booking holidays online continues, these same tourists also value personal recommendations once they’re at their destination,” Ms Gago said.
| New focus on regional areas |
“That’s where the local knowledge, guidance and friendly welcome provided by VIC staff and volunteers can make all the difference.”
She said the VICs were constantly providing information on local attractions and accommodation to tourists, encouraging them to stay longer and experience more.
“The SATC’s goal through the Sell SA pilot project is to provide VIC staff and volunteers with the tools they need to convert as many tourists’ enquiries as possible into sales,” she said.
Ms Gago said a new, dedicated team had been established within SATC to work with and support all 45 accredited VICs.
She said the first stage would run over 12 months, involving eight centres identified as standing to benefit greatly from the assistance provided.
“This first stage will involve SATC working with each VIC to jointly create an individual development plan, identifying its strengths and weaknesses, and providing a roadmap for addressing these to create future growth,” Ms Gago said.
“The success of the program will be measured by improved economic impact from the VICs involved in the program and factors such as increased visitor numbers to the centres,” she said.
“If successful, the project will continue and will eventually involve all VICs.”
Edition 150, 26 January 2012
|
|
