Towong Shire Council has developed a Tourism discussion paper to inform local communities of past and present success, while developing ideas for the future.
Tourism is one of the northeast Victorian Shire’s fastest growing industries and in 2009 Council developed a new strategy to capitalise on this.
“The new plan will make a positive difference to the communities we live in; a plan that supports local jobs, thriving businesses and a bright future for all communities to enjoy,” said Towong Mayor Peter Joyce.
“Tourism sustains over 1,400 people in the Shire; it’s now hard to imagine life in Towong Shire without it. Tourism Australia Research supports that tourism is now worth $46.8 million to the local economy.”
Tourism accounts for around 340,000 visitors to the Towong Shire each year, with more than 1,000 beds made available by local accommodation operators.
“Cultural diversity and friendly communities are of great interest to the targeted touring market,” said Mayor Joyce. “This is evidenced by the outstanding increase in visitation during festival times.”
One strategy introduced by Council is the continued development of the Corryong Airport, aiming to increase its profile and promote an increase in return visits.
Council also developed the Snowy Valleys Way – an alternate driving route to the Hume Highway, from Gundagai to Beechworth, which is one of four newly developed tourist drives in the Shire.
Towong has also previously played host to a variety of tourism events including the Tallangatta 50s, the Man From Snowy River Bush Festival and the Towong Cup.
Council is currently pursuing funding to support further infrastructure development.
