Tourism Minister hosts an industry event for Peel tourism – 22 July 2021 – David Grays Arena
Tourism Minister, David Templeman, played host to Peel tourism operators last week at a forum to highlight State Government priorities, future plans and support for tourism in our region.
With over 100 Peel tourism operators and industry representatives in attendance, the Minister shared tourism insights and outlined some of the regional priorities that will help us build Peel’s tourism industry. It was also an opportunity for the Minister to hear firsthand from local operators to understand the challenges the Peel tourism industry faces in growing their businesses and the industry.
Developing Peel’s unique story as a visitor destination is key in promoting and capitalising on our natural assets and unique characteristics. Our trails, waterways, coastline and National Parks provide the foundation for what makes Peel different to anywhere else in Australia.
Our Aboriginal heritage, the oldest living culture in the world, is a cornerstone of Peel’s story – embracing that heritage, supporting our Aboriginal businesses and sharing those stories with visitors on Country positions Peel as a premier destination for indigenous tourism experiences. The development of a skilled and industry-ready workforce, hosting major events, geotourism opportunities and signature cultural events are other avenues for tourism growth in the Peel.
The event featured a lively interactive Q&A session that explored the questions and issues most relevant to our regional tourism businesses. Attendees raised common issues such as accommodation, the availability of workers, the industry’s tendency for over-reliance on international workers and the financial impact of lockdowns.
Minister Templeman acknowledged both the positive and negative effects the COVID experience has had on our tourism and hospitality sector and encouraged the continued relationship and collaboration between industry and all levels of government to understand the support that’s needed. While some of our local tourism businesses have experienced positive outcomes, some feel that the local tourism industry has shouldered an uneven burden from COVID restrictions and lockdowns and called on the State Government for greater support.
By listening to our local businesses and industry representatives to achieve true collaboration, we can build diversity and create the regional tourism depth that attracts visitors and entices them to stay longer. This event brought together industry and government to start the conversations and make the connections necessary for us to create a thriving tourism industry in Peel.
Check out the Photo Gallery below.
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Original Event listing here.
Meet the Tourism Minister event images
