Council gives Campaspe Economic Development and Tourism Strategy green light

By Emily Donohoe

Jul 26, 2024

Campaspe Shire Mayor Rob Amos, Tourism Australia industry relations manager Kristy Malapa, Victorian Tourism Industry Council facilitator Despina Karatzias, Campaspe Shire Council tourism development manager Cheryl Hammer, Murray Regional Tourism chief executive Cameron Sutton and VTIC member engagement executive Chantelle Khan at the Campaspe VTIC Quality Tourism Business Program launch and networking night. Photo: Supplied

Campaspe Shire Council officially adopted the Campaspe Economic Development and Tourism Strategy and Action Plan 2024 to 2029 at its meeting on Tuesday, July 23.

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The plan was created through community and industry consultation, and was open for feedback in June.

Mayor Rob Amos said he was grateful for the input from residents to shape the strategy.

“Your engagement has been crucial in ensuring that our strategy truly represents the needs and aspirations of our community,” he said.

“It was really important to us to be assured that we had input from all areas — geographically and industry-wide — to assist with the economic growth and tourism prospects of the shire.”

A consultation period of around 12 months was undertaken by council, including industry forums and workshops, an online survey, a summit event and community feedback during the exhibition period.

There were 11 responses from the viewing period, with improvements to the strategy including updated maps, more emphasis on natural capital and an added international tourism focus.

“We are grateful for the hundreds of submissions that were received during the consultation process for this strategy from across the municipality,” Cr Amos said.

“The final CEDTS report and action plan has been amended to incorporate the valuable input received, reflecting the community and industry aspirations and feedback.”

The strategy itself aims to support economic development and tourism across the region, with the action plan stepping through projects, such as the upcoming VTIC Quality Tourism Business Program, that promote this development.

Cr Amos is ready to bring the strategy to life, and thanked the work of council staff to overcome challenges during its creation.

“On behalf of all councillors, I would also like to extend sincere congratulations to all the officers involved in the completion of this pivotal strategy,” Cr Amos said.

“During the development of this strategy we have faced hurdles including devastating flooding events, plus staffing shortages and changes, so we are grateful for the dedication and hard work of the team to get this important piece of work finalised.

“We look forward to the implementation of this strategy, and we are confident that it will bring about a transformative impact on the economic landscape of Campaspe, benefiting residents, businesses and visitors for years to come.”

The strategy can be viewed at https://www.campaspe.vic.gov.au/Our-council/Documents/Strategies-plans