IN THE SPIRIT OF CAMARADERIE…
The air quality across the region this week has been a harsh reminder of the impact these bushfires have had on our state. In the face of such devastation it’s really wonderful to see how the community has come together to support the affected areas.
Being in the business of tourism, we can all empathise with our friends to the east so This Week in Tourism this is dedicated to the ways our industry is responding to the situation.
In the spirit of camaraderie, we’ve reached out directly to the Regional Tourism Organisations of Gippsland & The High County, offering our professional support. In addition to this, our team has pledged to visit the fire affected areas to help tourism operators (just like yours) in the hope that we can lessen the blow, just a little.
We’re also seeing a lot of support from Tourism Australia and Visit Victoria who are working hard to promote the areas of the state and country still safe and open to potential visitors. More about that here.
#THISISVICTORIA
Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) has just launched a new content sharing gallery, This is Victoria – a collaborative approach for industry and all Victorians to share images and videos online that depict the true and current visit-ability of Victoria’s safe and accessible destinations during the 2019-20 bushfire season.
All the details on how to get involved can be found here.
I PLEDGE TO VISIT…
The @emptyesky campaign is a movement of foodies and adventurers supporting local businesses affected by the Australian fires and is a great way to pledge your support.
Highlighting bushfire affected areas, their products and the people their Instagram page is helping us see how visiting these areas can really make a difference.
So, where do you pledge to visit?
BEER THAT’S GOOD FOR YOUR HEART
Say what? It’s true, BrewiColo in Ocean Grove is supporting fellow brewers and their communities as they tap a series of kegs from breweries affected by the fires. For each keg they will donate all the sales to CFA Victorian Bushfire Appeal and WIRES. The first beer has just arrived, so head down to taste Bright Brewerys Raspberry Sour Ale ????.
Now that’s sharing the love ❤️️!
WINE, WALKS & A WONDERFUL CAUSE
The APCO Foundation’s, Geelong Wine Walk will donate 100% of the profits to those affected by the Australian bushfires.
The wine walk is an exclusive opportunity to taste some of the regions finest wine and food. Held on Saturday, 15 February it’s a great way to enjoy some local produce while helping those in need. Event details and booking info can be found here.
GEELONG FIRES UP
The Pier Geelong is running Geelong Fires Up on January 26th. There’s entertainment by The Piano Bar plus a silent auction and 100% of all proceeds will be contributed to The Bushfires Disaster Appeal (Endorsed by Vic Govt).
For tickets and for businesses keen to donate prizes to the auction, head to their website.
MAKE DONATIONS
Other ways to help are through direct donations, some great fundraising appeals include:
Victorian Bushfire Appeal
Red Cross Disaster Relief and Recovery
Bushfire Emergency Wildlife Fund
Country Fire Authority
Australian Red Cross Lifeblood
Foodbank Victoria
