For economic and social sustainability reasons we need to rethink the way tourism is developed in Australia. The following summary points reflect my argument that we need to build truism from the bottom up, empower local communities to use tourism to conserve rural Australia’s culture (full paper attached below). Tourism practitioners now have the opportunity of contributing to the Tourism Expenditure Taskforce.

It is interesting to note that a mainstream media channel in Australia reported a greener destination experience this weekend. Written not as a quirky option for a few 'Greenies' but as alternative that might appeal to anyone. Sydney Morning Herald - How Green Is My Valley.

Turning your responsible actions into a tourism experience

The following example demonstrates how an operator's property and sustainability message can be used to support a community event and add value to the visitor experience.

Introducing a garden walk with a difference.

Safety and security are of great importance when visitors consider destinations for their annual holidays. Media coverage of terrorism, national public/political strikes and extreme climate events can have a negative impact on a country/region’s appeal. How tourists were warned, looked after and helped evacuate, have impacts on a destination’s brand image – broadcast by the ever present social networks. In Australia staff and guest safety, and implemented Climate Change Adaptation plans should be acknowledged as tourism businesses ‘licence to operate’.

Tourism is one of, if not the, primary economic driver for many Australian rural communities. Stimulating visitor expenditure is therefore vital to positively contribute to the rebuilding process in Queensland (and rural NSW and Victoria) effected by recent climate events. The swifter the implementation of strategic well planned support campaigns the faster the repair to the economy.

The floods in Queensland only emphasis further the need to strategic responsible action.

UPDATE 9th March 2011 - Economic Impacts 1 in 4 Australian's avoid Queensland for fear of flooded destinations.

Observations:

The Responsible Tourism Awards have just been announced on the UNWTO sponsored World Responsible Tourism Day and for the very first time Australia tourism was acknowledged as making an important contribution to responsible tourism.

The successful entries were:

Booderee National Park won their category cultural conservation

Orion Expedition Cruises won the Best Cruise or Ferry Operator

Kangaroo Valley won a Highly Commended for Best Destination

Moutain Bikes - Mounting Questions. Should we permit and encourage mountain biking in NSW National Parks as proposed by the NSW Government? The idea of healthier leisure pursuits, reduced dependence on fossil fuels and the creation of new tourism infrastructure should be applauded. But the negative impacts and need for strong cohesion leaves us with a number of questions. This article aims to pinpoint concerns and put forward recommendations.

Economic Development

Crystal Creek Meadows wins 2009 NSW Tourism - Qantas Awards for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism 2009