New strategy set to boost local business
The West Gippsland Progress Association's (WGPA) West Gippsland Food and Tourism Strategy officially launched on Thursday.
Formed after the Bunyip Complex Bushfire in 2019, WGPA aims to enhance the local economy by engaging local businesses and community organisations to develop and execute plans.
The Food and Tourism Strategy is intended to support local businesses and improve tourism opportunities in West Gippsland in the wake of the bushfire and the COVID-19 pandemic, focusing on Nar Nar Goon, Garfield, Tynong, Maryknoll, parts of Pakenham, and Bunyip.
A number of people from WGPA, local businesses, organisations, and the Cardinia Shire Council attended the launch.
Guest speakers included The Garfield Hotel owner Brad Alden-Brown and food writer and journalist Richard Cornish. Owner of the Cannibal Creek Vineyard Kirsten Hardiker welcomed guests, and members of the WGPA committee and Leanne Tyrrell from Tyrell Publicity and Promotions also addressed attendees to provide an overview of the strategy.
Cameron Smith host of Eat It noon on 3RRR emceed the event.
The strategy proposed that "by 2025 West Gippsland will be recognised for farm gates, local produce champions, regenerative agriculture practices, and food-related businesses and events."
TRC Tourism was employed to develop the strategy, which extends over a three-year period and includes a mini marketing plan. Between late September and mid-December last year the strategy was developed through research and analysis, consultation, a survey, and a site visit to the Bunyip Ward.
Owner of The Garfield Hotel Brad Alden-Brown spoke at the launch. He told guests how he came to purchase the hotel.
He said that when he first moved to the area it was like "a ghost town," however he credited local hospitality for its present state.
"I really believe Garfield's come back to where we are now is because of food," he said.
Cardinia Shire Councillor of the Bunyip Ward Graeme Moore is supportive of the strategy. He said that re-energising and developing the region is something very close to his heart.
"It's exciting to get all the groups together with the same mindset," he said.