Bipartisan commitment to Grampians Peaks Trail development shows faith in Victoria's tourism industry

VICTORIA's peak tourism industry body welcomes bipartisan support for further development of the Grampians Peaks Trail for the increased benefit this vital tourism attraction could bring to the Victorian economy.

“This development will position Victoria as a key nature-based tourism destination, which means significant job creation and economic benefit,” said Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) Chief Executive Dianne Smith.

Ms Smith’s comments follow today’s announcements from both major parties of funding for further development of the trail should they be elected to the next term of government.

The project is expected to create 170 full time jobs in construction and operation, generate more than $6 million annually in tourism spending and attract an additional 86,000 visitor nights annually to the region.

The development of this trail has long been supported by VTIC and is a priority in its 2014 state election agenda to grow tourism in Victoria.

“We welcome this announcement as VTIC wants to see initiatives that support tourism growth and create jobs. Investments in the Phillip Island Nature Parks, Sovereign Hill and the Shipwreck Coast remain outstanding opportunities for policy makers that we will continue to urge commitment to,” said Ms Smith.

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The Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) is the peak body for Victoria’s tourism and events industry, providing one united industry voice.

Tourism and events are growth industries for Victoria and contribute $19.6 billion to the state economy each year and employ more than 200,000 people.

vtic.com.au

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