Figures released by the State Government reveal that Baw Baw Shire has attracted more than one million visitors in a year for the first time.
The latest tourism figures released by Destination Gippsland revealed that domestic day and overnight visitors for Baw Baw went from 939,000 in 2017 to 1,120,000 in 2018 – a jump of 19 per cent. Regional Victoria's overall increase averaged just 6 per cent while greater Gippsland region's growth was only 3 per cent.
"These results are absolutely fantastic for Baw Baw Shire and reflect the new focus that our Economic Development and Tourism team have placed on reaching out to the metropolitan Melbourne audience in particular," said Baw Baw Shire Mayor Cr Mikaela Power.
At the heart of this strategy has been a radio advertising campaign directed at the greater metropolitan Melbourne audience under the 'Closer Than You Think' tagline. Other moves have been to work with local and state government agencies including the Latrobe Valley Authority and Visit Victoria to attract major international quality events including the Melbourne Food & Wine Festival; World Jousting Championship; and a special performance by the Australian Ballet Company.
"Baw Baw Shire has become a very popular destination whether you're looking to explore wonderful natural settings like Tooronga Falls at Noojee; stepping back in time at the historic town of Walhalla; or out for a shopping spree among the many boutiques and crafts shops at Yarragon," Mayor Power said.
"We're just as close to the city as many other major tourism destinations in Victoria. It's exciting to think we're now getting recognised for all the wonderful things on offer within Baw Baw Shire."
