Warrnambool will this week host the state Visitor Information Services Summit.
The summit, to run from November 23 to 25, is delivered annually by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) in partnership with a host region and is the key professional development event for visitor information services staff.
VTIC Chief Executive Officer Felicia Mariani said VTIC was thrilled to be bringing the Visitor Information Services Summit to Warrnambool.
"Visitor Information Services are critical to Victoria's visitor economy and our recovery, playing a key role in encouraging visitors to stay longer, explore further and experience more," Ms Mariani said.
"By bringing the state's Visitor Information Services professionals together we are ensuring a well-connected and informed network, ready to welcome visitors with open arms once again."
Warrnambool Mayor Cr Richard Ziegeler will welcome delegates to the city at a special function at Fletcher Jones Gardens, with a sneak peek at the classic car collection at the yet-to-open Warrnambool Motor Museum.
"We're very pleased to host the 21st edition of the summit, last held in Warrnambool in 2010," Cr Ziegeler said.
"We know how important tourism is to Warrnambool's economy and bringing tourism industry representatives to the city provides a great opportunity for delegates to share insights into the post-COVID recovery of the tourism sector.
"It also provides us with an opportunity to showcase Warrnambool's appeal and how we fit into the Great Ocean Road and the South Western Victoria's tourism offering generally."
VTIC research has shown a visit to an accredited Visitor Information Centre (VIC) encourages visitors to spend $186 more in the region on average, and 90 per cent of visitors to go to a new attraction or place,
Close to 100 delegates from across Victoria will share knowledge, practical experiences and innovation within visitor information services, strengthen networks and build relationships between individuals, businesses, regions and local areas in which tourism is a key economic driver.
The first day of the conference will be dedicated to study tours showcasing the region's tourism attractions including Tower Hill, Deep Blue Hot Springs and an excursion to Budj Bim and Port Fairy, with itineraries selected by the Warrnambool and Port Fairy visitor information centres.
Industry-leading keynote speakers will share contemporary research and case studies, with a focus on exploring how visitor information services staff can support the visitor economy recovery through collaborative promotion, connection with community and business, and new ways to connect with visitors and their changing needs.
The conference venue is the Warrnambool Racing Club which underwent a $5 million refurbishment earlier this year.
Local radio host Jon Vertigan will be master of ceremonies while the Pavilion Café and Bar will host the Gala Dinner, highlighting the region's fresh produce.
