Campaspe Shire and Murray River Councils have emphatically denied that they are withdrawing support for visitor services for their regions.
Both Councils are in fact expanding both collaboratively and individually on tourism and economic growth, re-directing funds towards a modernised, region wide strategy that will leverage the unique attractions of both the Murray River and Campaspe Shire Councils.
On the back of Echuca Moama Tourism (EMT)s decision to close the Visitor Information Centre in Echuca, both Councils have reiterated the updated Memorandum of Understanding co-signed in May this year that highlighted, among other things, a shared vision of prioritising economic development and tourism in both communities.
Campaspe Shire and Murray River Councils work with a myriad of tourism partners, including State Government peak bodies, accommodation associations and a variety of individual and group operators including Campaspe Port Enterprises, to actively promote and enhance the tourism and economic benefits on both sides of the river. Echuca Moama Tourism is just one of those many partners.
There is real opportunity for us to look at new and innovative approaches to visitor services right across our regions, that incorporate a multi-faceted and modernised approach that more closely aligns our efforts and resources to reduce unnecessary and costly duplication. Additionally, we have the opportunity to improve the economy of scale and delivery timetables while creating sustainable growth opportunities to enhance the appeal of our collective regions as a premier tourist destination.
We are quite excited with our MOU and the renewed vigour it will bring, and sincerely look forward to working together much more closely in the tourism space.