General News
31 October, 2024
Tourism industry gathers at forum
Dimboola was bustling with activity on Friday as Grampians Wimmera Mallee (GWM) Tourism hosting their first tourism industry forum at Dimboola Rowing Club.
Dimboola was bustling with activity on Friday as Grampians Wimmera Mallee (GWM) Tourism hosting their first tourism industry forum at Dimboola Rowing Club.
The stormy weather didn't deter guests from across the region to join curious locals to hear about what GWM Tourism has planned for the Wimmera Mallee.
Hindmarsh Shire Council CEO Monica Revell said she pushed for Dimboola to host the first local industry forum.
"When I heard GWM Tourism was going to hold a forum in the Wimmera Mallee, I knew Dimboola had to be the first one," she said.
Ms Revell also discussed what projects are happening around the shire as well as outlining tourism and visitor numbers.
"We have many hidden gems around the shire," she said.
"Many people don't know how much we actually have to offer."
Shire project updates included the Llew Schilling Silo in Rainbow, the construction of Rainbow Rises Event Centre and the 62km Wimmera River Discovery cycing and walking trail between Dimboola and Lake Hindmarsh, which is anticipated to open next month.
GWM Tourism CEO Marc Sleeman said they currently have 66 industry partners working with them in the Wimmera Mallee region.
A board meeting was also held in Dimboola earlier in the day.
"It's important to show what the town has to offer," Mr Sleeman said.
"Nature is a big drawcard in the Wimmera Mallee."
GWM Tourism's marketing manager Georgia Bennett also made a presentation.
The Wimmera Mallee Destination Management Plan was endorsed at the board meeting and is now available for public viewing.
Melbourne-based freelance photographer, digital marketing and social media professional, Rob Embury, taught attendees about photography skills, social media and content creation.
"When it comes to photography, I can easily go down the rabbit hole," he said.
As Time Goes By in Dimboola owner Amy Ward spoke about her journey starting up a river cruise business, the only one in the region.
"I'm reliant on locals and word of mouth at this stage," she said.
"It's good to be unique and open to embrace different ideas."
Ms Ward said the business was currently going through rebranding with a new name, Dimboola River Cruises.
As Time Goes By is the name of the boat.
Between the breaks in the cold and wet weather, guests were able to enjoy networking on the boat.
"It's all about working together and getting tips," Ms Ward said.
Drinks were supplied by local wineries and food catered by Big Bertha, run by Dimboola local Neil Devonport, who used local produce to create the dishes.
"It was great to see so many people here," Dimboola Imaginarium owner Chan Uoy said.
