A STRONGER, more connected, and sustainable tourism future for the region is tipped after a new structure linking Loddon and Bendigo was ticked off on Monday.
The new visitor economy partnership Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon gained approval from the Bendigo Tourism board and was expected to be officially announced through City of Greater Bendigo council yesterday.
The Loddon Herald has been told that “over the coming months the new VEP board will be appointed which will include Loddon Shire Council, as well as local industry representation. The VEP membership program and benefits will also be announced”.
Tourism numbers have jumped across the Loddon Shire in the past two years with both day-trippers and overnight visitors.
Operator of the Bridgewater and Wedderburn caravan parks. Kristy Hourigan, last month said park bookings for recent long weekends had been up at least 50 per cent on the previous year and parks were already booked out for some dates in 2026.
The visitor economy partnerships replace the regional tourism board model that industry sources say “reflect extensive consultation, research, and strategic planning by industry leaders, local councils, and the Victorian Government”.
Sources say the transition offers tangible benefits, including:
„ Stronger industry representation – The VEP will serve as the official voice of our visitor economy, ensuring industry priorities are heard at the highest levels;
„ Increased funding and resources – Recognised as the official tourism body, the VEP will have greater access to government investment and operational support.
„ Enhanced regional collaboration – By broadening its footprint, the VEP will connect businesses across the region, fostering innovation and expanding marketing and brand reach. They say VEPs will bring more visitors to the region through:
„ A unified strategy for growth – With a formalised structure, the VEP will drive cohesive destination development, marketing, and visitor attraction strategies;
„ Targeted marketing campaigns to promote the region’s diverse offerings to state, interstate and international markets. „ Connected Visitor Experiences – Broader product offering including trails, tours and UNESCO Bendigo City and Region of Gastronomy to encourage longer stays and wider exploration.
„ Improved visitor Services - Better integration of attractions and visitor centres to enhance the overall tourist experience.
„ Consistent industry support - Training, development, and communication to be streamlined and accessible across the region.
“This new body is in its early stages of development, and will be the peak tourism body for our region,” Loddon Shire told local tourism operators late Tuesday afternoon.
“The body is recognised by the Victorian State Government and will position our tourism industry for long-term success. Loddon Shire said Destination Greater Bendigo Loddon was a tourism partnership between the State Government, local government and the regional tourism industry.