Working together to boost tourism in the region
Published: 04 Jul 2024 3:17pm
Wagga Wagga City Council is inviting tourism businesses and organisations to join forces to promote visitation to our thriving Wagga Wagga + Surrounds region.
Applications are now open to join the Wagga Wagga Tourism Partner Program for 2024/25, which is now in its ninth year.
The program provides tourism businesses and organisations an opportunity to collaborate and be involved in a range of marketing initiatives, as well as participate in workshops and events coordinated by Council’s Visitor Economy and Events team.
Each year, Wagga Wagga welcomes 1.4 million visitors, who contribute $376 million in spending into the local economy.
Council’s Visitor Economy Development Officer Cassandra Farquharson says tourism thrives when businesses work together.
“We each have a vital role to play when shaping visitor experiences and raising awareness of our Wagga Wagga + Surrounds region,” Ms Farquharson said.
“Our destination is unique and welcoming, and we can’t wait to showcase all of the amazing businesses and experiences that make it so great.
“We are thrilled to launch the Wagga Wagga Tourism Partner Program for 2024/25 and look forward to working with tourism businesses as our city and region continues to gain recognition as a leading regional destination.
“The upcoming program will continue to deliver all of your favourite Visit Wagga Wagga publications, including the Visitor Guide and Top Spots Guides, and there will be industry events, collaborative marketing campaigns and tourism and event support from our dedicated team.”
Naomi and Tim McMullen from Borambola Wines have been involved with Wagga Wagga City Council’s Partner Program since it launched.
“We see great value, benefits, and opportunities presented to us with being part of this program,” Ms McMullen said.
“It is well organised, and we would highly recommend any small or tourism related business to sign up.”
Those sentiments were echoed by Madeline Menzies from Ladysmith Park Perennials.
“We've loved being a part of the Wagga Wagga Tourism Program; it's been invaluable exposure to the Riverina and greater community,” Ms Menzies said.
“It has allowed us to network and collaborate with other local businesses.”
The Wagga Wagga Tourism Partner Program successfully launched several initiatives during 2023/24, including:
- In Conversation – an intimate workshop series with high-value guest speakers with a unique business story.
- Magic Moments – a new destination marketing campaign focusing on unique Wagga Wagga visitor experiences and local pride.
- Out for Adventure – a micro-adventure series in collaboration with the adventure specialists at Tom's Outdoors and Council Tourism Partners including Coolamon, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Greater Hume, Junee, Lockhart Shire and Snowy Valleys.
- Wagga Wagga Christmas Campaign – an interactive advent calendar hosted on the Visit Wagga Wagga website, revealing amazing prizes leading up to Christmas and a special Christmas video in collaboration with the Riverina Conservatorium of Music.
Categories for the 2024/25 program include accommodation, attractions and experiences, tour operators, restaurants and eateries, event venues and retailers.
To be eligible to sign up, businesses must be located within a 120-kilometre radius of the Wagga Wagga Local Government Area and must be accessible and relevant to visitors.
Applications are open year-round, however to be included in the Wagga Wagga + Surrounds Visitor Guide, businesses are encouraged to sign-up by Wednesday 14 August 2024.
You can also contact the Visitor Economy team at partners@wagga.nsw.gov.au or on 1300 292 442.