Glenelg Shire Council, Victoria, has joined forces with Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism (GORRT) and community leaders to develop a tourism strategic plan aimed at strengthening the visitor economy and increasing visitor satisfaction.
Destination Action Plan includes priority actions for the short to medium term to increase the town of Casterton’s competitiveness as a key tourist destination.
GORRT General Manager, Liz Price said the plan aimed to grow visitor expenditure and dispersal across the local area.
“The passion and enthusiasm from industry and community in Casterton to grow as a tourism destination has been captured in the Destination Action Plan for Casterton.
“This plan identifies the priority, affordable, achievable actions that will assist Casterton in growing the visitor economy. It provides a roadmap to encourage all stakeholders to work collaboratively.”
Glenelg Shire Mayor, Anita Rank, who is also a GORRT board member, said there were great opportunities to establish new food and art inspired experiences.
“What has become evident from this working group collaboration is the rich underground art scene and home grown foodie experiences which are in this talented community.
“These are the sort of experiences tourists will travel hundreds of kilometres to enjoy. Together we must collaborate to put these attractions front and centre to develop Casterton as a key tourist destination, highlighting the wealth of experiences on offer.”
Cr Rank said the eagerness of locals to provide their feedback to the plan had been enlightening.
“Casterton is a passionate community who are embracing their visitors with open arms. The welcome people receive, which is best showcased during the Kelpie Festival, is what makes the community such a delight to explore,” Cr Rank said.
