Community Invited to Have its Say on Berri Tourism

Members of the public and tourism stakeholders are being urged to take part in a survey to help shape the delivery of tourism information services in the Berri Barmera area.

The public consultation is part of a Berri Barmera Council review of its tourism services and the building that houses the Berri Visitor Information Centre, (VIC) which began in September.

Tourism is a key economic driver in the district with 213,000 visitors coming to the Berri Barmera area in 2016-17 and contributing $51 million to the local economy.

More than 100 local businesses also benefited from tourism over this period.

Tourism is the fourth largest employment industry sector in the district, behind manufacturing, agriculture and utilities.

However in 2017-18, only 6,360 out of the 12,000 people who came into the VIC sought information about local attractions, representing a mere 18 enquiries a day and only three per cent of total visitors to the Berri Barmera district.

Berri Barmera Mayor Peter Hunt said “The operation of the Berri VIC cost ratepayers last financial year an estimated $267,000.”

 “Although the Berri VIC has experienced a decline in foot traffic in door counts, there has been a rise in digital engagement through tourism websites and Destination Riverland’s promotional content, Mayor Hunt said.

“We are seeking public feedback to find out the value of the VIC, noting its running cost and if there is a better way of delivering visitor services to support our local economy.  I encourage your participation in this survey.”   

People wanting to take part in the survey can find it at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/L8VDV5W.

The survey is also available at the council’s Berri office and from the front counters of the Berri and Barmera Public Libraries.

The information supplied in the survey will be treated confidentially and results be presented only in the form of aggregated data in a report to council.

All surveys need to be completed by 1 February 2019.

For media enquiries: Contact Berri Barmera Council Acting CEO Karyn Burton on 8582 1922, or email [email protected].