A New Chapter for Limestone Coast Tourism – Destination Management Plan launched at World Heritage listed Naracoorte Caves
RDALC was pleased to launch the Limestone Coast Destination Management Plan at the spectacular Naracoorte Caves and Wonambi Fossil Centre on Wednesday 21 October bringing together tourism operators, industry partners and stakeholders from across the region.
South Australian Tourism Commission CEO Emma Terry formally launched the plan and shared insights into South Australia’s tourism industry and the opportunities ahead for the Limestone Coast.
Ms Terry said “Naracoorte Caves is the perfect place to launch the Limestone Coast Destination Management Plan, showcasing the remarkable experiences and natural assets that make this region so special. This Plan gives us a shared vision for growing tourism across the Limestone Coast, creating new reasons to visit, stay longer and explore more, while supporting the businesses and communities that bring the region to life. We look forward to working with RDA Limestone Coast and stakeholders across the region to seize the opportunities ahead and turn this Plan into action.”
The Destination Management Plan provides a shared direction for the Limestone Coast visitor economy. It focusses on strengthening the region as a destination, supporting tourism businesses and communities, and encourage visitors to explore more of the Limestone Coast and stay longer.
Sarah Philpott, Interim CEO RDALC and Chair of the Limestone Coast Regional Tourism Organisation said “From a moving Welcome to Country to insightful presentations and many valuable conversations, the day was a wonderful celebration of our region and the people helping shape its tourism future.”
With over $660m in visitor expenditure and 2100 direct jobs, tourism is a strong contributor to the Limestone Coast regional economy. The Plan aims to strengthen the visitor economy and enhance visitor experiences further by connecting people, place and culture. There are four key priority areas:
- Distinctive Visitor Experiences
- Caring for Place
- Impactful Regional Storytelling
- Destination Stewardship
The Plan includes specific projects that are of state significance, such as positioning the Naracoorte Caves as a globally significant flagship attraction. It also identifies projects of regional importance, such as development of the Crater Lakes Precinct, and a Coastal Visitor Impact Framework. It highlights workforce development, storytelling and investment attraction. A key feature is also industry innovation and support.
RDALC Board Chair Robyn Verrall said “We know that the people who work in tourism every day have the greatest knowledge, experience and understanding of our region. By listening to operators and working together, we can turn opportunities into action.”
The event, supported by SATC, was also a chance to introduce the RDALC regional tourism management team, enjoy some outstanding local food and wine, and most importantly, connect with the operators who bring visitor experiences to life. Over 60 people attended the event, and tourism operators networked with each other, local government representatives, partner organisations and SATC.
Natasha from Walk the Limestone Coast said “The industry networking event after the Launch was a great opportunity to talk with other operators, to share information and to make new connections. It is important that tourism operators are involved in shaping the future of tourism for the region.”
The Limestone Coast Destination Management Plan will be delivered by RDALC, SATC, local government and other key partners working together with industry.
