Avalon’s growth factor
More overseas visitors can bring an extra $32m into economy
OPENING the gates for international visitors at Avalon Airport will be a gamechanger for Geelong and the coast, and will immediately pour $ 32 million into our economy, local tourism operators say.
But Geelong Otway Tourism boss Roger Grant said it would not be the huge success businesses hoped for without major investment in tourism infrastructure and fresh ideas to lure tourists.
A $50 million upgrade of Great Ocean Road, connecting transport and accommodation were desperately needed, he said.
Mr Grant said the airport would be a ‘‘major gateway’’ for the region, and — if properly planned — could benefit communities between Geelong and the South Australian border.
The challenge would be to direct tourists to make Geelong their base from which to travel, rather than always opting for Melbourne.
‘‘The industry is delighted that this critical project has taken a step further towards eventual direct ( i nternational) flights coming to Avalon,’’ Mr Grant said.
‘‘ When you read the reports and look at our region, we’re doing relatively well domestically, but the real growth potential is inter- national and to have that opportunity is one we’re really relishing.’’
A destination management plan, produced earlier this year, showed the number of nights visitors spent in the region had grown by about 8 per cent per year in the last decade.
That number could drastically increase once the $15 million airport upgrade was completed, Mr Grant said. The Federal Govern- ment’s airport announcement has followed plans for eco-accommodation sites on Great Ocean Road.
Colac Otway Shire acting chief executive Jack Green said the move would be a major boost for businesses in the southwest.
‘‘This is a fantastic outcome for our region and, along with the duplicated highway and Geelong bypass, will make Colac Otway Shire even more liveable and accessible,’’ Mr Green said.
Mr Grant said groups within the tourism industry would have to work with governments and the private sector to develop strategies to maximise the opportunities international visitors at Avalon would bring.
‘‘It’s about getting people to actually stop, stay and spend,’’ he said.