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Major tourism summit announced for East Gippsland
Date of Issue: 
April 27, 2023

East Gippsland Shire Council has announced it will hold the inaugural Inspire East Gippsland Tourism Summit, which will bring together national tourism experts and assist local operators to capture a greater share of the fast-growing nature-based tourism market.

The event, to be held at the Metung Country Club on Thursday 25 May, is designed to inspire and inform the tourism industry as the region sets out to capture more of the sustainable ecotourism market. Council has already hosted a series of smaller events and workshops to support the local tourism industry.

Mayor Cr Mark Reeves expressed his excitement about the major event, saying, "The Inspire East Gippsland Tourism Summit is a fantastic opportunity for our region to come together and discuss a sustainable and prosperous future for tourism.”

“We’re excited to host such an impressive line-up of speakers and to learn from their expertise in the industry," he added.

The summit will feature keynote speeches from leading eco-tourism operators in Australia, including Peter Gash OAM from Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort on the Southern Great Barrier Reef and Rob Pennicott from Pennicott Wilderness Journeys.

Joining them will be Leigh Sorensen, General Manager of Industry Relations at Tourism Australia, Felicia Mariani, CEO of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, and Elissa Keenan, CEO Ecotourism Australia, with more speakers to be announced soon.

The event promises to be an enlightening and informative event, offering local tourism operators a chance to learn from leading tourism experts and network with industry peers.

"The Inspire East Gippsland Tourism Summit is just one example of how we’re working to promote sustainable tourism practices and to showcase the unique beauty of our region to visitors from all over the world," Cr Reeves said.

The event is expected to sell out quickly, with tickets going on sale on Monday 1 May. For bookings contact the East Gippsland Visitor Information Centre on 1800 637 060.

Media Enquiries: Communications Team – (03) 5153 9500

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