TOURISM NEEDS LOCAL SUPPORT
TOWNSVILLE tour company Raven Tours is helping neighbouring businesses get a slice of the tourism pie by taking customers to some of the region’s historic locations.
Owner Rod Jones started Raven Tours after being asked by a family to give them a tour of the historic Ravenswood township.
Since then, Raven Tours has expanded into offering historic Townsville city tours, multi-day tours to Atherton, City Scenic Tours and day tours to Hinchinbrook.
The Taste of Hinchinbrook experience has been popular during the Covid-19 pandemic and has in turn helped Ingham hospitality businesses get through some of the toughest times the industry has faced.
Townsville Enterprise director – visitor economy and marketing Lisa Woolfe said it was incredible how far and wide support could be felt and why Townsville Enterprise had launched a Together in Tourism campaign.
“We hope locals get an idea of the ripple effect of tourism businesses within our community and economy. By spending money with one tour operator, you are supporting dozens of connected businesses and suppliers too,” Ms Woolfe said.
“The relationship Raven Tours and JK’S Deli has formed is a great example of that.
“During the uncertainty and chaos that Covid has and continues to have on our tourism industry, many of our operators have adapted their experiences for the local market.
“This has helped keep them afloat and subsequently open up new partnerships,” Ms Woolfe said.
Mr Jones said it was locals supporting locals that kept the economy turning over.
Townsville Enterprise is encouraging the community to get involved and show how they support tourism by using the hashtag #Togetherintourism.
For more information, go to townsvilleenterprise.com.au website.