Getting the word out

Published on 25 November 2013

Come see what we’ve got!

That’s the message Loddon Shire tourism staff and volunteers have been pushing this month, with two promotional efforts in Bendigo selling the Loddon Valley as a visitor destination.

The more recent exercise was a stand at the RV and Camping Leisurefest at Bendigo Racecourse this past weekend operated jointly by Council’s Tourism Department and Aussie Wool Quilts, of Boort.

The event, now in its 12th year, showcases the latest caravans, motorhomes, camper  trailers, four-wheel-drives, campervans and other recreational and touring vehicles, as well as tents, camping accessories, telecommunications products, destination information, fishing gear and more.

More than 13,000 visitors were expected from around the state.

Tourism Manager Robyn Vella said this was the first time Council had flown the flag at Leisurefest.

“Caravanners, motorhome owners and campers are a huge part of our tourism market in Loddon and our primary aim was to create an awareness of the tourist experiences people can have here,” Mrs Vella said.

“We had a display of things to see and do in the region, promoted our Loddon Valley DVD and offered two hampers of local produce in a lucky draw.

“Pauline Brown, from the Loddon Visitor Information  Centre, and Marilyn Lanyon, of Aussie Wool Quilts, were manning the stand all weekend and did a great job.”

Earlier this month, a display was set up at Bendigo Marketplace to talk to shoppers and show photographs, brochures and samples of local produce.

“Special thanks go to Chris Sharp, from Sharps Bazaar at Inglewood, and Denise Gartside, from Inglewood Emporium, who took time out from their work to assist Loddon Ambassador Roberta Foster in Bendigo,” Mrs Vella said.

“We found most interest came from the Baby Boomer segment, as well as from photographers, walkers and anglers.”

For more information on the Loddon Valley, please phone 5454 3489.