The Halls Gap Visitor Information Centre saw a record number of international tourists come through the doors during August, bucking the current trend of declining international visitor numbers into Australia.
The current climate has seen international arrivals in Australia decline, but Halls Gap is both remaining a drawcard and experiencing growth with an increase of 24% on the August 2008 figures recorded.
International visitors currently account for between 15% and 40% of all visitors to the Halls Gap Visitor Centre, depending on the time of year.
Northern Grampians Shire Council Tourism Manager, Paula Rathgeber, said visitors from Europe were providing the biggest boost. The German and French visitors have been continually growing for the last 10 years.
“European visitors have grown by 265% on the August 2000 figures, and they have grown a staggering 50% since August 2008. Both UK and Asia have increased while figures from the US remain steady”, Ms. Rathgeber said.
Councillor Ross Clementson said the strength and valuable partnership with the Great Southern Touring Route and its marketing internationally was a significant contributing factor to the figures.
“GSTR have marketing plans addressing all key markets and continue to be successful in linking and promoting the self drive of Great Ocean Road, Grampians and Ballarat, which they sell to the world”.
“We have some wonderful international-ready product in Halls Gap, from varied accommodation choices such as DULC, D’altons, and Mountain Grand to Boroka Downs and Marwood which have opened up a variety of options for travellers”.
“Products such as Brambuk keep our visitors here longer and provide an indigenous experience that is unique to the Grampians. Other international products in the greater Grampians area also contribute to the experience visitors are seeking”, Cr. Clementson said.
Ms. Rathgeber said international visitors are vital for the Grampians and often travel at times when domestic visitation is low, such as midweek, and have a higher tendency to spend money on experiences once in the area.
“International arrival figures into Australia for August have not been released yet, but regardless of the global economic crisis, Halls Gap defies the trend”, Ms. Rathgeber said.
Enquiries to Amy Rhodes
Communications Coordinator
Phone: (03) 5358 8752
Mobile: 0403 366 025
Email: amy.rhodes@ngshire.vic.gov.au
