What do you think about Council’s tourism vision?

What do you think about Council’s tourism vision?

Published on 27 November 2019

After going through 1200 survey responses and collating feedback from hundreds of people who attended visitor forums, kitchen table discussions, attended industry meetings and working with 26-randomly selected residents and ratepayers, Council has come up with a draft vision for tourism in the Byron Shire over the next ten years.

The draft vision for Byron Shire Sustainable Visitation Strategy is Byron Shire supports a visitor economy that cares for and respects our residents, protects our natural environment, celebrates our cultural diversity and shares our social values.

Tourism Officer, Lisa Richards, said the draft vision is a key component of the Byron Shire Sustainable Visitation Strategy which will shape the development of the local tourism industry over the next 10 years.

“The popularity of Byron Shire as a tourist destination is often at odds with residents who sometimes find it difficult to share the place they call home with more than two million visitors a year,” Ms Richards said.

“We want to make sure that the new Sustainable Visitation Strategy acknowledges the importance of the tourism industry, the biggest contributor to the local economy, but more importantly, also places a high value on local, community views as well as environmental protection,” she said.

With the finishing touches being put on the draft Sustainable Visitation Strategy, Council is now asking the community to comment and provide feedback on the vision for tourism.

Does it reflect the values and principles expressed by the community during the engagement process?

Respect of community, nature, others and self Appreciation of culture, nature and social diversity Conservation of the natural environment and biodiversity Welcoming all and acceptance of diversity Balance between economy, society, culture and environment Acceptance of indigenous historical and spiritual cultures Live in harmony and safety Work/life balance that embraces activity and healthy and sustainable lifestyles Embracing education, innovation and enlightenment Balance between the laid-back and relaxed lifestyle with engaged activism.

Public submissions, thoughts and views on the draft vision for the Byron Shire Sustainable Visitation Strategy 2020-2030 are now being welcomed.  Go to https://www.yoursaybyronshire.com.au/talking-future-tourism for more details.

The closing date for submissions is 19 December 2019.  It’s expected the Byron Shire Draft Visitation Strategy will be presented to the Council in early 2020.

For more information call Annie Lewis, Media and Communications Coordinator, on 6626 7320.