The Australian and Victorian Governments have today announced the breakdown of more than $300,000 in immediate marketing and events funding for Gippsland following the devastating bushfires earlier this year.
Victorian Tourism and Major Events Minister Tim Holding said the funding was part of immediate marketing and advertising efforts to encourage visitors to return to Gippsland.
"This funding will help tourism operators in Gippsland to rebuild their trade which is a vital part of the recovery process," Mr Holding said.
"The bushfires have impacted on tourism businesses in Gippsland but the message is that Victoria is again open for business and I think that message is getting through.
"There are just so many wonderful tourism experiences in these areas and we want the tourists to come back. This region has so much to offer including outstanding wineries and restaurants, stunning natural attractions and nature-based tourism activities and unique events."
The $315,000 is part of the joint $10 million Victorian Bushfire Tourism Industry Support Package which was announced in March following the devastating bushfires. Further funds will be provided to the Gippsland region from this package.
The Federal Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson AM MP, said it is critical government help encourage visitation to regions which suffered significant declines in visitor numbers and cancellations following the bushfires.
"The Australian Government is committed to boosting tourism in these regions and supporting regional events and marketing opportunities is an important part of our response.
"Tourism is a critically important industry in Gippsland and the Australian Government is pleased to assist the industry through what is an extremely challenging period."
Funding for the Gippsland region includes:
- $75,000 for a new campaign to encourage visitors to visit Mt Baw Baw this winter;
- $50,000 to further enhance the Creative Gippsland events that highlights over 100 small diverse arts and cultural events and activities throughout May.
- $30,000 for Wilson's Promontory marketing; and
- $80,000 for a marketing and public relations campaign in Victoria;
- $40,000 for international and interstate marketing including television advertisements in southern New South Wales; and
- $40,000 to boost the existing Inspired by Gippsland brand campaign.