By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
A PROPOSED Geelong-Bellarine Peninsula tourism board will have to apply for funding from a new industry authority it refused to join.
Tourism Minister Louise Asher said Geelong council’s decision to set up its own tourism body was “not the preferred outcome”.
The Independent reported last week that Geelong, in conjunction with Queenscliffe and Golden Plains shires, had rejected the Government’s plans for the new mega tourism board, stretching to the South Australian border.
Geelong cited inadequate funding from Tourism Victoria for the new board.
Ms Asher said Geelong was “free to decide as it wishes”.
“Obviously I’m keen to ensure the ongoing success of the entire region, as it is integral to our marketing efforts, in both domestic and international markets.
“At this stage, funding is available for the South West Regional Board as part of the three-year Regional Tourism initiative. The Geelong Bellarine Board will be able to access those funds and contribute as appropriate to joint marketing activities.”
The Geelong Bellarine board will replace Geelong Otway Tourism.
