Stride into Spring: Inspiring Industry – September 2012

CEO Foreword

The team at Destination Melbourne are striding into spring after an action packed Victoria Tourism Week. This year the industry came together and celebrated the best of Victorian tourism with gusto and we really appreciate the engagement and support.

The Melbourne Tourism Industry Exchange, the Tourism Industry Leadership Program Summit, The Local Government Tourism Breakfast and of course the Amazing Race were highlights, but the real back story is the way industry continue to embrace the higher order principles of unity and co-operation. Nowhere was this better evidenced than in the series of excellent blogs posted by industry leaders on our website. A big shout out to contributors Michael Pearlman, Dianne Smith, James Ridenour, Peter Jones and Emma Kent, who shared their views freely on what tourism means to them (destinationmelbourne.com.au).

While big business and government are intent on reducing head counts and cutting costs, a lean industry that has already faced off GFC, floods, fire and a high Australian dollar has demonstrated that it is well equipped to make a confident statement about its future. In times of stress, people often retreat into their shells. Strong participation in key Destination Melbourne events last week are proof that the industry is putting its best foot forward.

The launch of the iPhone version of the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne and the Discover Your Own Backyard website are testament to the collective will of the visitor industry. Destination Melbourne may be the publisher, but without your support these initiatives would still be ideas floating in the ether. We are grateful.

People do not go on holiday to have a bad time. If we as an industry are able to consistently demonstrate confidence and resilience, Victorians will choose to holiday closer to home. Seven days does not a season make, but in the first week of spring the industry has made a bold statement to win the hearts and minds of locals.

Destination Melbourne really appreciated the opportunity to partner with VTIC on Victoria Tourism Week this year. Tourism is a team game and one of the hallmarks of Victoria’s success as a destination over the last decade has been the industry’s ability to work together and put the visitor first. After three years Victoria Tourism Week has gained its own momentum. We invite you to stride into spring with us.

Click here to see the full newsletter.