Campaspe Shire Council hosted its first tourism networking night on Tuesday, July 16, announcing the launch of the VTIC Quality Tourism Business Program.
Held at The Mill, it was attended by 85 people from a range of tourism sectors, including accommodation, hospitality, retail, attractions and viticulture.
Attendees were welcomed to country by Wollithiga Elder Uncle Rick Ronnan, before presentations from three guest speakers.
Tourism Australia industry relations manager Kristy Malapa spoke about Australia’s role in the global tourism industry, and what resources were available to market the region to the world.
Victorian Tourism Industry Council member engagement executive Chantelle Khan discussed its projects, such as the Top Tourism Town Awards and training programs available for businesses.
The final speaker was VTIC business trainer Despina Karatzias, who is set to lead the VTIC Quality Tourism Business Program in Campaspe Shire.
This will be a six-week course that will provide 20 local tourism businesses with mentoring and accreditation.
The program has supported 120 Victorian tourism business operators since its inception in April, trained by mentors such as Mrs Karatzias.
Mrs Karatzias will guide the businesses through six modules, related to marketing, customer service, management and operation. She has been in the tourism industry for more than 20 years and a business trainer for a decade.
“I would like to think what we’re doing tonight, the investment and the resources (is) for you,” she said.
“It’s so exciting for you and your local community that this investment has been made.”
She believes that the course and its accreditation leaves local businesses in good stead.
“All of the things like risk management, crisis management ... accredited business do better in crisis,” she said.
“You get an opportunity to think about the ‘what ifs’ and the worst-case scenario.”
The first workshop will begin in person on Tuesday, August 6, followed by an alternating online and in-person training schedule.
Mrs Karatzias is looking forward to leading the program and guide local businesses in Campaspe Shire.
“What does it take to be a quality tourism business? Quality tourism people,” she said.
“I know you all already tick that box.
“I know that every step of the way, you will be better today than you were yesterday.”
Campaspe Shire Council Mayor Rob Amos said the event and program showed that local businesses are optimistic about the future of tourism in the region
“It was evident on Tuesday night that there is a very positive feeling among local tourism operators and other stakeholders about how they can work together to keep our visitor economy growing, and it is wonderful council can contribute to that through these initiatives by our tourism team,” he said.
Council believes the program will give operators tools to thrive in the visitor economy, supporting the entire industry in the region.
Businesses that are interested can apply through the VTIC website by Friday, July 26.