It was a full house at the Ballarat Golf Club on Tuesday as more than 80 Industry Partners and Friends joined us for our summer Industry Briefing.
Special guest Charles Deuchrass (Visit Victoria’s Group Manager, Marketing & Programs) shared highlights from the new Visit Victoria 2030 strategy.
The document outlines how Visit Victoria will further boost the state’s visitor economy while ensuring that the growth is sustainable, inclusive, and resilient. It demonstrates how Victoria’s distinctive brand, unrivalled events program and the strength of a united ‘Team Victoria’ will position us to compete and win on the global stage.
This ambitious strategy aims to grow Victoria’s visitor economy from $43.7 billion to $53.4 billion by 2030, creating exciting opportunities for regional destinations and businesses just like ours!
Charles also joined Ben Cole (Tourism Midwest Victoria’s Acting Coordinator Marketing) and Madeleine Sawyer (Tourism Midwest Victoria’s Acting Coordinator Sustainable Destination Development) for a panel discussion exploring how local businesses can make the most of Visit Victoria and TMV’s destination marketing activity which is driving visitors to our region.
Here are their top tips for making your business stand out:
1. Stay connected
Maintain an active Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) listing to qualify for TMV Industry Partner status, attend TMV events and subscribe to both TMV and Visit Victoria’s industry newsletters. Staying connected ensures your business is visible, aware, and ready to seize new opportunities.
2. Tell your story
In a digital world flooded with content, consistent storytelling is key.
- Share what’s new: Help your social media followers get to know you and your business by sharing content about new seasonal menus, new staff, new renovations, new events and offers, new collaborations etc.
- Build recognition: Repetition in your social media posts builds familiarity and brand strength.
- Stand out from the crowd: Share what makes your business special.
- Bring your story to life: Embed your story into as many visitor touchpoints as possible – this includes the in-person experience.
3. Make the most of events
Our region’s year-round events calendar is packed with opportunity. From major sports and exhibitions to festivals and concerts, each brings a range of new audiences to the region.
Check out the TMV Events Calendar, to help you plan ahead, anticipate visitation spikes and align your offers with key event moments.
And think creatively! Themed menus, extended hours, or special offers can all help convert event visitors into new customers.
4. Spread the word
List your business, event, experience or special offer on ATDW as early as possible so visitors can plan ahead.
We’re always looking for new people, places, and experiences to promote. The more we hear from you, the more we can share our region’s Brilliantly Unexpected stories.
Got something to share?
Reach out to our Marketing Team at marketing@tourismmidwestvic.com.au
And don’t forget to tag @VisitBallarat on your socials!