DID you know that in the past four years, tourism in Dungog Shire has generated 105 tourism-related jobs and $24.6 million in visitor spending?
In the process, it’s made the shire’s hospitality, retail and accommodation businesses more resilient and improved the viability of services and facilities that every resident of the shire relies on, according to Belinda Blanch, the shire’s Tourism Development Officer.
In short, a healthy tourism sector directly benefits everyone, Ms Blanch wrote in her monthly newsletter.
That’s why Dungog Shire Council is asking every resident to complete a short survey on the Future of Tourism in Dungog Shire.
“Tourism only works if it reflects what residents value,” Ms Blanch said.
“Outsiders can write marketing plans and create campaigns, but they don’t truly understand what makes Dungog Shire special.
“They don’t know what spaces feel welcoming, which events build real community, where visitors and locals coexist well, what landscapes deserve protection, or what aspects of our identity are worth sharing.”
Ms Blanch said that when the industry develops around what residents genuinely care about, visitors experience something authentic – and the wider community benefits.
“Tourism isn’t just an add-on to the life of our community,” she wrote.
“Tourism helps keep local businesses sustainable and our community economically resilient.
“When visitors spend money here, they’re supporting us – our people and our places.
“That means stronger local employment, stable businesses, and more reasons for new businesses to invest in our shire.”
Dungog Shire Council teamed up with Dungog Regional Tourism and the Dungog District Chamber of Commerce to develop the survey.
It covers events, accommodation, local food, nature-based activities and the infrastructure needed to support a thriving visitor economy.
The survey is also an opportunity for shire residents to share what they think we’re doing well and where there’s room to grow.
Their feedback will help guide future tourism initiatives and inform a Tourism Round Table, where residents, businesses and community groups will come together to explore ideas and opportunities for the region.
“The survey takes only a few minutes to complete, and every response counts,” Ms Blanch added.
To complete the survey, go to https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PWYWHQ
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