Ballina tourism promotion gets a boost
Tourism groups to promote Ballina and surrounds will be working more closely following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Northern Rivers Tourism and Ballina Tourism and Hospitality.
“Northern Rivers Tourism already works closely with tourism associations in our region, but this MOU will allow us to provide efficiencies and added services to tourism operators in the Ballina district,” said the CEO of NRT, Russell Mills.
The MOU is designed to enhance the reputation and public standing of both organisations and to better service the needs of the region, as well as increase communications and the exchange of information.
“Ballina Tourism and Hospitality is delighted to be more formally working with NRT for our mutual benefit,” said the president of Ballina Tourism and Hospitality, Jason Mumford.
“As the voice for the tourism industry in the Ballina Shire, we are confident that the closer association with the regional body will bring more benefits to our current and potential members.”
Tourism operators can expect to see more clearly defined membership benefits at the local and regional level.
According to Mr Mills, ‘importantly we will develop a joint membership program with efficiencies in administration and promotion for the benefit of our mutual members’.
It is expected that the MOU is the forerunner of similar agreements with other tourism bodies in the Northern Rivers region.
Background – Ballina Tourism and Hospitality & Northern Rivers Tourism
Ballina Tourism and Hospitality is a private sector industry body, whose aim is to drive the growth of Ballina Coast & Hinterland (Ballina Shire) tourism and hospitality businesses through the development of co-op marketing campaigns, representation to local government on tourist signage and issues effecting our industry.
BTH’s vision is for Ballina’s Coast & Hinterland to be a destination, popular with domestic and international visitors, wanting to enjoy the region’s cultural and natural attractions and experiences.
The role of Northern Rivers Tourism is to provide leadership and direction for the tourism industry of the region, to promote destinations and experiences in the region amongst target markets and provide a platform for tourism operators to participate in tactical marketing and attract tourism dollars.
It also facilitates and coordinates professional and skills development workshops and seminars for the commercial success of industry operators, interprets industry insights and intelligence, and provides advocacy to state and federal tourism agencies in the interests of the Northern Rivers’ regional tourism industry.
