Tourism workshops shape the future

More than 100 Orange businesses from a variety of industries were represented at the Council's recent tourism workshops.

Members of the Orange business community were called upon to discuss their ideas, in a constructive forum, to help shape the future of Orange's tourism.

Orange City Council's Employment and Economic Development Committee chair Jeff Whitton said the two independently-facilitated workshops, held last week, brought together representatives from many groups and organisations that influence and impact tourism in the Orange region.

"It was encouraging to see a broad range of local businesses come to have their say," Cr Whitton said.

"Over the two events 117 people attended.

"The food and wine producers of Orange have built a solid reputation which attracts thousands of visitors, and now it’s time to build on those foundations.

Cr Whitton said the Council needed to make sure the wine and food area continued to prosper, but it also needed to ask where else we can grow the tourism sector.

"It’s important that the views of all local business are heard when we look at the future direction of tourism strategies," he said.

A report on the findings is being developed.

"We’ll hear back from the consultants is due course, and their work will help to inform that planning," Cr Whitton said.

Representatives included government agencies, retail businesses, accommodation venues, hospitality venues, culture, music and entertainment, transport and sporting industries.

BRAINSTORM: People representing a broad range of industries came together to determine the future of Orange tourism.