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Murrindindi Regional Tourism Association 22 March 2005 Page 1
Minutes of Committee Meeting File No. 58/06/13
MURRINDINDI REGIONAL TOURISM ASSOCIATION
Minutes of Committee Meeting
Tuesday 22 March 2005
Tanglewood Restaurant, Kinglake
1. Meeting Opened & Welcome
Welcome drinks were held at 6:00pm for guests from the Kinglake Ranges Tourism & Business
Association. The meeting was opened by the Chairperson at 6:30pm.
2. In Attendance & Apologies
ORGANISATION PRIMARY PROXY APOLOGY
Alexandra Traders & Geoff
Tourism Association Proctor &
Geof
Sargent
Department of John Steer
Sustainability &
Environment
Eildon Action Arthur Kapantzian X
Kinglake Ranges Stan Burden X
Tourism & Business
Association
Lake Mountain Alpine Brett Herridge X
Resort
Murrindindi Shire Cr Peter Beales X Cr Mike Dalmau X
Council
Mystic Mountains
Tourism Inc.
Parks Victoria David Nugent X
Upper Goulburn Food Marcus Gillon X
Wine & Culture Group
Yea & District Tourism Sam Hicks
Association
OTHER: Cr Graeme Brown, Murrindindi Shire Council X
Cindy Ferguson, Murrindindi Shire Council X
Bronwyn Mumford, Murrindindi Shire Council X
Tammy Blakeney, Murrindindi Shire Council X
GUESTS: Muriel Gray, Victoria Wissell and David Johns, X George
Kinglake Ranges Tourism & Business Association Nadj
Murrindindi Regional Tourism Association 22 March 2005 Page 2
Minutes of Committee Meeting File No. 58/06/13
Additional Apologies: Damien Jacobs has resigned from MRTA as MMT‟s delegate & Jodi Morrison has
resigned from MRTA as YADTA‟s delegate.
3. Confirmation of Minutes of the Previous Meeting
Motion: For the Minutes of the 22nd February 2005 meeting to be accepted.
Moved: Cr Beales Seconded: Brett Herridge CARRIED
4. Business Arising from the Minutes and Action Items
Nil.
5. Correspondence
IN
Letter from Sas McKenzie accepting the MRTA Bookkeeping position
Invoice from Sas McKenzie, Bookkeeping Charges - $87.50
Sales Now Open for Victoria‟s Cultural Guide 2005-2006, Cultural Tourism Industry Group
Organisation Changes, Tourism Victoria
Tourism Market Briefings – Register Now, Victorian Tourism Awards Update #26
Invitation for MRTA to join in upcoming marketing campaign - Trek Australia, New Zealand & The
Pacific
Invitation to exhibit at The Gardening Australia Festival, 29 September-2 October – Haymarket Events
Agenda for Country Victoria Tourism Council Annual General Meeting held on the 28 th of February 2005
and request for proxy to vote on behalf of MRTA if not able to attend
Notification of Tourism Alliance Victoria‟s annual Victorian Tourism Conference 2005: The Art of
Tourism Relationships - Unlocking creativity for the right outcome 5/ 6 May 2005 (handouts provided)
MMT alliances discussion paper and the Motions passed at the March 2005 General Meeting
Email from Damien Jacobs resigning as the MMT representative due to other commitments including his
recent appointment to the Yarra Valley Dandenong & The Ranges Board
Strengthening Our Communities Conference (for Community Groups) Application Form
Action: Secretary to forward „Strengthening Our Communities‟ Conference application forms to LISTA &
VIC member groups.
David Nugent extended an offer for MRTA to sponsor an MRTA Delegate/s to attend the
Strengthening Communities Conference.
Murrindindi Regional Tourism Association 22 March 2005 Page 3
Minutes of Committee Meeting File No. 58/06/13
OUT
Letter to Council regarding the Yarra Valley Dandenong & The Ranges Memorandum of Understanding
Appointment of Proxy Nicholas Hunt on behalf of MRTA for Country Victoria Tourism Council Annual
General Meeting held on the 28th of February 2005
Letter from Council‟s Tourism Unit (on behalf of the Unit/ MRTA) to Minister Pandazopoulos thanking him
for his contribution to the Murrindindi Regional Tourism Awards, sending him copies of Coast & Country
featuring Murrindindi and rather belatedly inviting him to be our guest at Marysville‟s World‟s Longest
Lunch
Letter to Better Business Victoria confirming MMT‟s financial membership with MRTA
Motion: That the correspondence be accepted.
Moved: Bronwyn Mumford Seconded: Cr Beales CARRIED
6. Reports
Delegates reports were not discussed in great detail as they had been sent to members with the agenda.
An additional copy will be sent with these minutes for your records. David invited any questions arising
from the reports, however no questions were forthcoming.
President
Further to David‟s delegate report that included information regarding Lake Eildon National Park (Fraser)
& the Fernshaw Picnic Area, David commented on the importance and successfulness of the recently held
Tourism Industry Forum. He felt it was the highlight of the month.
Furthermore, David added that various current issues were discussed at the Executive Meeting last week.
Treasurer
Please find attached copies of the December, January & February Treasurers Reports. With the recent
appointment of a Bookkeeper, these reports should now be received monthly and will be forwarded with
the agenda.
Tourism Unit
The TSO advised that at the recent VIC Network Group Meeting training of the volunteers was discussed
and subsequently, various training opportunities would be provided over the coming twelve months. It is
proposed that a VIC Summit will be held for all volunteers across the Murrindindi Shire (approximately
160) with assistance from Tourism Alliance Victoria.
The TSO thanked local businesses for their support of the most recent Coast & Country marketing
opportunity, a feature of the Mitchell, Whittlesea and Murrindindi (Kinglake, Yea, Strath Creek &
Flowerdale) areas focusing on natural attractions.
Furthermore the TSO advised that aspects of the area were filmed recently in conjunction with the
National Mountain Bike Championships and featured fly fishing at Snobs Creek Winery. Whilst the
production will predominately feature the Championships, it is fantastic coverage for the Shire and will air
on SBS on Sunday the 27th of March at 10:30am.
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Cr Brown stated that the Championships were a fantastic event, the only issues he raised were dust
problems and no water in the portable toilets at one point. Cr Dalmau explained how Eildon had hosted
this National Event for two years running now and people stayed in the area for 4-5 days. Eildon nearly
lost the event but thanks to Council Officers & Councillors, the event was retained.
Good negotiations happened and Tony Scott from Mountain Bike Australia was made aware of the great
bike riding/trail opportunities, not only in Eildon, but also across the whole Shire. Cr Dalmau went on to
state that Council/MRTA need to further promote and invest in this area, as it‟s a popular sport with
many state and national titles being held.
David Nugent added the demand for mountain biking is high and ranges from a family activity to hard-
core enthusiasts. Parks Victoria needs to work with Local Government at looking further into
opportunities, particularly opportunities to link in with the upcoming Commonwealth Games and
programs at Lysterfield Park. Cr Dalmau stated this is possible, but it‟s a matter of being able to
maintain the course. These public liability and land management issues will be discussed with Goulburn
Murray Water.
Additionally, a debrief meeting regarding the recent National Mountain Bike Championships held in Eildon
has been organised for Thursday the 31st of March, in the Alexandra Council Chambers from 7:00pm.
Jeff Harrison, Goulburn Public Use Manager, Goulburn Murray Water is currently on leave, however upon
his return a meeting with Council Officers will be arranged to discuss future opportunities for the course
area. In previous discussions Jeff has highlighted that ownership of the course and area would need to
be driven by the local community/Eildon Action.
Delegates
David Nugent invited KRTBA (as host delegate) to speak briefly about the association‟s recent activities.
KRTBA – Stan apologized for being late and welcomed delegates to the Kinglake area. Stan raised
several current issues. Firstly, the reproduction of the Yea-Kinglake Touring Guide & Map. KRTBA has
been working in conjunction with YADTA and the production should be finalised shortly. It is ambitious
to think they will be produced in time for Easter, however the associations are aiming for as soon as
possible.
Secondly, KRTBA sent a letter to the Murrindindi Shire Council requesting assistance with the placement
of signage to the Kinglake area on the Melba Highway and Plenty Road as „Kinglake is up the road from
Whittlesea‟. Cr Beales advised the letter had not been received yet and that Council was still working on
negotiations with Whittlesea and VicRoads. Furthermore, the TDO advised Council was currently
investigating a tourism signage audit, which was good timing and could assist.
Finally, David Johns, KRTBA Member, has put together and is continuing to produce pamphlets that
highlight a range of visitor services throughout the Kinglake area. David provided examples to delegates.
David Johns discussed his pamphlets in further detail. He thought of a series looking at different aspects
of the Kinglake area. He began with a general booklet and is now producing more specific ones
focussing on waterfalls etcetera. He has created a National Park one, yet to be seen by Parks Victoria,
which he will produce with their approval after ensuring details are correct. David Nugent suggested
contacting him at Parks Victoria, as they may be interested in advertising in that edition.
David Johns has spent six months taking photos and working on the booklets. He plans to develop
additional ones focusing on fishing, mountain biking, canoeing and the like. The pamphlets have only
just got going in the last few weeks and it is early days, he has never done anything like this. The
booklets are being displayed at the VIC and within local businesses where people frequent.
Brett asked whether more would be produced after this original run. David explained he would try to
keep up with demand. Brett went on to suggest using different colours to differentiate the different
booklets/topics.
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Minutes of Committee Meeting File No. 58/06/13
Cr Beales explained that the booklets are for visitors to use when they are in the area, not as a
marketing tool to promote the area. Cr Dalmau said he admired the production, servicing customers
their on arrival. Stan highlighted that advertising on the back of the booklets assisted funding the
production, which was not expensive as hundreds are being circulated along the range.
Cr Dalmau suggested Council might be able to assist with production costs. Cr Brown added MRTA may
also be able to be involved with the funding. David Nugent commented MRTA might be able to help out
with part sponsorship. The TDO stressed the need to embrace the opportunity by putting a formal
request for funding/sponsorship to both MRTA and Council so that the sentiment isn‟t buried in the
meeting‟s minutes, but actually has the chance of happening.
Arthur invited David Johns to the next Eildon Action Meeting, on either the 11 th or 18th of April, to make a
presentation about the booklets, his ideas and the local support that has been achieved. The support
gained appears to have come after seeing the product and hard work, an attitude we should promote,
instead of what often happens, which is asking for support before taking the initiative.
David Johns stated with over 200,000 visitors to Kinglake National Park annually, the sky‟s the limit. Cr
Brown suggested that KRTBA write letters to Council, MRTA and other organisations (including relevant
data) and detailing the kind of sponsorship they are seeking. Additionally Cr Beales suggested
monitoring interest levels in the booklet and obtaining accurate figures. Letters seeking support should
include the possibility of expanding the locations of the booklet drops, which would therefore increase
production. Muriel stated that other VIC‟s within the Shire had already requested copies of the booklets.
Action: Arthur and David Johns are to liase regarding a booklet presentation at the next Eildon Action
Meeting.
Action: KRTBA to consider sending a letter to Council and MRTA, explaining the booklet process and
including copies of the current booklets, seeking sponsorship and support. Ensure to detail the value of
sponsorship being requested.
In closing, Stan advised that membership in KRTBA is increasing which is encouraging.
Marketing Sub-Committee
The TSO advised that the Sub-Committee met yesterday (21 March) as a new extended Committee, as
per the recent industry forum request for LISTA‟s to nominate additional representatives. Unfortunately
a few representatives were unable to make the meeting.
An initial introduction was provided and homework given to representatives to investigate the marketing
dollars allocated by each LISTA for the 2005/06 period, as well as individual operator costs, to get a
grasp on collectively what the area is spending. This information will be collated and information sought
on what, when and where LISTA‟s market to assist with strategies of the plan and subsequent actions.
The TSO added that the next meeting will be held on Monday the 11 th of April and will focus on
developing further strategies and actions, prior to making a presentation to Council on Tuesday the 3 rd of
May 2005.
TDO stated that whilst Geoff Proctor, Chair of the Sub-Committee is absent at this meeting, he strongly
believes that for the Sub-Committee to work, all associations have to get behind it.
Murrindindi Regional Tourism Association 22 March 2005 Page 6
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Awards Sub-Committee
David Nugent commented that MRTA needs to be aware of what, and how much, it takes on with
relation to the running of the awards. This year‟s awards are coming around quickly again, thus it is
important to get the Sub-Committee back together. The Sub-Committee is made up of representatives
from the hosting LTA from the previous year, this years host LTA and next years host LTA, together with
Council Officers and the MRTA President and Secretary. For your information, this years host is
Marysville, last years was Alexandra and the previous year it was Yea.
The TSO advised that it is hoped that the awards will be launched in May and there are plans to have
Tourism Victoria come to the Shire and combine the launch with a networking night focussing on the
awards process. David added that a really good debrief was held after the last awards night and it is
imperative to get moving on this years awards.
OVG Sub-Committee
The TSO provided an update on the new Official Visitors Guide. A proof has been received from The
Standard (who produce the guide) and the Tourism Unit is currently reviewing it and will provide
feedback tomorrow (23 March). There are naturally advertising changes, the addition of new businesses,
some businesses have dropped out and some have closed down. Editorial changes include highlighting
the distance to townships from Melbourne and travel times from other areas in a user friendly table.
Approval is required from the Legends, Wine & High Country Campaign Committee and Tourism Victoria.
The production should be released in about a fortnight.
7. Other Business
7a) Professional Indemnity/Public Liability Insurance (ZIB Insurance Brokers Ltd Proposal)
The TDO commented that due to a lag response from the insurance agency, there is no current update
on findings. It has been suggested to invite Lisa Elward from Council to attend the next MRTA meeting
to assist with discussions, whilst also following the issue up further with ZIB Insurance Brokers who have
been recommended by Tourism Alliance Victoria. David Nugent added it is MRTA‟s intention to source
the information for delegates to take back to each LISTA.
Arthur advised that he attended a lecture today given by the Treasury & Finance Department‟s Senior
Advisor to Minister John Lenders, who spoke about public liability and professional indemnity insurance
and the tourism industry. Issues discussed included concerns regarding the availability and affordability
of insurance. Arthur suggested considering approaching the lecturer to come and speak with MRTA
given she is currently working on the issue.
Cr Brown suggested Lisa and Cindy make contact with the lecturer. Cr Dalmau suggested putting a
process into place to get the lecturer to an MRTA meeting in order to express views and implications to
her.
Action: Arthur to provide the Secretary with the lecturer‟s details so contact can be made.
Action: Secretary to invite Council Officer Lisa Elward to the next MRTA Meeting to discuss insurance
issues and options.
Motion: The Tourism Unit and Lisa Elward work together, with the support of Council and MRTA, to
arrange for Minister Lender‟s Senior Advisor to attend a future meeting and discuss insurance
issues.
Moved: Cr Beales Seconded: Stan Burden CARRIED
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7b) Visiting Journalist Policy
The TDO advised that Council Officers are seeking MRTA feedback to assist with the creation of a „Visiting
Journalists Policy‟. Journalists to region naturally focus their editorial on the area and often require
accommodation, food and entry to attractions. The Tourism Unit is in the process of implementing a
policy whereby operators who get editorial coverage as a result provide their services free of charge,
recognising the value provided by such publicity for the business directly, as well as for the area.
Brett suggested getting LISTA‟s to provide a list of service providers who are happy to do this and then
call upon these members when the situation arises. The TDO stated that that is included in the strategic
marketing plan, however we need to know what to do when the service provider is not on the database.
Cr Dalmau said that it is not fair to expect one service provider to provide dinner, bed and breakfast, and
perhaps utilising different businesses would help spread the load. If businesses get a mention it is worth
thousands of dollars. There is a need for Tourism Officer‟s expertise to ensure professional
establishments are used, as they are first impressions for this area. We‟d hate to take journalists to a
place that‟s not up to scratch.
Muriel suggested informing members of promotions available to assist with getting them involved in
associations.
Arthur stated that this should fall under the financial plan, which has never been discussed as part of the
MRTA meetings since he joined. He added a budget should be created a year ahead to see the amount
we need for the whole operation, therefore we can see how we can share costs and sell to associations
as financially interested stakeholders. Could the monthly treasury report include how we meet budgeted
items? Then we don‟t need to discuss these kinds of things as they have already been agreed ahead of
time.
David Nugent advised there is a Business Plan and thanked Arthur for highlighting the need to report
against it. David said MRTA needed to look at how to report on it as part of the monthly reporting. He
added that the Visiting Journalist Program is part of the marketing plan and financial contribution needs
to be highlighted. The TDO has highlighted that in-kind support is also required.
Action: Executive to look at how to report back to delegates on items from the Business Plan.
Brett and David positively suggested that delegates could provide the Secretary with a list from each
LISTA of businesses that are happy to provide in-kind services and be involved in the Visiting Journalist
Program.
Action: Delegates to provide Secretary with a list from each LISTA of businesses that are happy to
provide in-kind services and be involved in the Visiting Journalist Program.
Arthur added that the time to discuss the policy is when discussing the marketing plan with individual
LISTA‟s to ensure that all members have an opportunity to ask questions and discuss further.
David said MRTA needs to work with the Tourism Unit to get criteria established, fit the policy into the
marketing plan and sell to the LISTA‟s.
Action: Executive needs to work with the Council Tourism Unit to get criteria established for a „Visiting
Journalist Policy‟ that will fit into the marketing plan and then sell it to the LISTA‟s.
Cr Dalmau suggested that LISTA‟s report back to MRTA on what coverage they have received previously
from visiting journalists, equating the coverage to dollars. A report of this kind would help justify the
policy to members.
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The TDO stated that MRTA would need a publicity report from everyone within the region, to bring back
to the table and enhance the value of presenting to Council. Each association needs to collect this data.
Currently the program is being funded from the Tourism Unit/Council, who needs to work with MRTA to
expand and enhance the process for consultation. Brett gave an example that Lake Mountain estimate
they received $400,000-$500,000 worth of free publicity last year and mentioned that editorial is far
more powerful than advertising.
Cr Dalmau added that if MRTA are spending their $4,000 budget on food and accommodation for visiting
journalists, then less is achieved. With more in-kind support, significantly more can be achieved.
Action: Each LISTA to provide Secretary with a publicity report detailing publicity gained from Visiting
Journalists in the past and to gauge the opinion of their members with regard to providing in-kind
services.
7c) Legends Wine & High Country Name Change
The TDO explained the letter requesting feedback was received by MRTA, but also by the Tourism Unit
and individual LISTA‟s seeking a direct response. The TDO highlighted that it is worthwhile that each
LISTA table an individual response to LWHC and also bring their response back to a future MRTA
meeting to discuss further in order for MRTA to respond as a coordinated industry body.
Action: Each LISTA is to table a response to LWHC regarding their name change and bring your
response back to a future MRTA meeting to discuss further, in order for MRTA to respond as a
coordinated industry body.
The initial feedback deadline is Wednesday the 30th of March. LWHC will collate the responses and then
for further input.
Cr Dalmau advised that Council‟s response regarding a suggested new name is „Victoria‟s Legendary High
Country‟. As a previous representative on the LWHC Board, Cr Dalmau explained there were good
reasons behind the suggested name. „Legends‟ has an acceptance in the marketplace. Whilst wine is
important, it is a universal product and not something that sets Murrindindi apart anymore. The other
part, „High Country‟ sticks in peoples minds with snow etc.
Whilst our perception of „high country‟ might be from Mansfield and beyond, it is not so in the market.
Any way you look at it, be it travelling up the Melba Highway, Black Spur or through Whittlesea/Kinglake
to Murrindindi, the perception from travelling up the through the hills, is we are high country. We need
to educate people to understand where it is. The word „legendary‟ pertains to Hume & Hovell Cricket
Ground, High Country Cattleman etc; the area boasts a lot of tradition.
David Nugent added the term „legendary‟ could also lead us into Aboriginal history as well. Cr Dalmau
continued stating Murrindindi per se is not known in the market, whereas Yarra Valley – High Country are
and this subsequently positions Murrindindi well. To have the North East Campaign Committee known as
„Victoria‟s Legendary High Country‟ means we can be marketed and people can have ownership. A
concept may be the „legendary high country road‟ starting in Healesville, through the Black Spur, Eildon,
Tolmie and up and out to Chiltern. Whilst between Cheshunt and Myrtleford is yet to be sealed, we can
still push the concept, as the biggest domestic market is travelling along the Hume and into NSW & Qld.
If we can divert travellers off the Highway and through Murrindindi and the Yarra Valley, we can get high
yield from the touring route and an icon. Alignment with the name would be of huge value to our area.
Yarra Valley Dandenongs and The Ranges are only focussed on Melbourne and not their back door.
The TDO explained that the LWHC Committee has already changed its name, so from an industry
perspective it is now North East Victoria Tourism Inc (NEVT). The process being worked through now is
to determine what name is used with consumers. After receiving preliminary comments, NEVT will come
back for further feedback from industry before testing suggested names with visitors from Queensland,
New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria.
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David Nugent said that given the short timeline for preliminary feedback, MRTA would take Cr Dalmau's
comments and focus on them in the MRTA response letter. The Chief Executive Officer will be
responding on behalf of Council and MRTA will write a separate letter, consistent with Councils thoughts.
Each individual LISTA has the opportunity to put in independent comments to NEVT and it is requested
that the TDO be provided with a copy of such feedback.
Stan suggested delaying this edition of the OVG for namesake, so we can use the new name change
prominently on OVG. The TDO advised that the name change has a much longer timeframe and should
be ready for the next OVG. David acknowledged it was a good idea but that the timing would not be
suitable.
Arthur raised concerns about different names, why have one for industry and one for customer? The
TDO advised she had raised the same point to the Committee and agreed it does not make sense,
however the majority of the Committee voted to change the industry name and progress with the
customer name.
Cr Dalmau said the only rationale is that it happened in line with the new Regional Development Plans,
as the name change is now in line with them. After researching the name change and selecting one,
perhaps then we can suggest to change the industry name back for harmony.
Brett mentioned „Victoria‟s High Country‟ was discussed at Lake Mountain after receiving the letter, as the
name highlights the strengths of the region.
Motion: The MRTA support the principle and concept that came from Council regarding the LWHC name
change to Victoria‟s Legendary High Country.
Moved: Brett Herridge Seconded: Arthur Kapantzian CARRIED
Action: Secretary to produce a letter to LWHC from MRTA in relation to the name change.
8d) Destination Yarra Valley, Dandenong Ranges Funding Accord
David Nugent explained to KRTBA members for those that were not aware, that MRTA is in the process
of reviewing its association with DYVDR, specifically in relation to MMT as they are a key player and have
provided feedback. MRTA has sent a letter to Council and the issue was recently on the front page of
the North Central Review newspaper.
Furthermore, the TDO advised that a letter was sent today (22 March) from Council‟s Chief Executive
Officer advising the DYVDR Executive Officer that Council had made a decision not to sign the proposed
Memorandum of Understanding for the current financial year and therefore, not to provide a further
$10,000. The letter also advised that Council would write to the new Committee of Management
indicating that Council/MRTA would welcome the opportunity to meet with them to continue
strengthening the strategic alliance.
David Nugent explained the $10,000 not provided to DYVDR had been redirected to MRTA‟s Regional
Marketing Plan and that the Marketing Sub-Committee are looking at marketing initiatives for
Murrindindi. The TDO added that any recommendations from the Marketing Sub Committee have to be
approved by the MRTA at a general meeting.
A copy of the letters mentioned (the letter to Council from MRTA and the letter to YVDR from Council)
are attached to these minutes.
Cr Dalmau expressed that Council would like to see industry get on board and supplement the $10,000
their with own money to ensure the money goes as far as possible.
Action: MRTA Delegates to discuss opportunities for co-contribution with LISTA‟s and report back to
MRTA.
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8e) Murrindindi Tourism Industry Forum
Cr Brown provided details on the forum being held next Tuesday the 29 th of March. Bill Fox, Regional
Marketing Manager with Tourism Victoria contacted the Mayor with concerns and a lack of understanding
regarding Council‟s decision not to sign the DYVDR Funding Accord. Bill Fox strongly desires strategic
links between Murrindindi and DYVDR and indicated that he wants to sit down and discuss issues and
concerns with key industry people.
Invitations have been sent to a range of key stakeholders. There is a sense of unity about MRTA‟s
position, which provides an opportunity to strengthen presence with benefits to Marysville, Kinglake and
Yea, being areas closer to Melbourne. Council believes there are great opportunities to link in down
there, to market our region and talk at high levels to achieve outcomes. Council thoroughly supports and
works with MRTA and Cr Brown reminded delegates that projects need to be put through to Council
through MRTA. Council supports any alliances to help further develop our industry.
Action: The procedure for future project support from Council is to be directed through Council.
David Nugent encouraged participation and representation by all LISTA‟s at this important industry
forum.
Cr Brown added this was a unique opportunity as Murrindindi had never been able to get Tourism
Victoria to the table at this level before, particularly given that Bill Fox approached us. The people
invited to the forum represent a range of community and industry stakeholders and are able to speak
well on these issues.
Muriel stated that she felt Kinglake would support MRTA‟s move away from DYVDR as DYVDR do not
seem to know or acknowledge Kinglake and the area has dropped off their maps. “Basically we don‟t
exist.”
The TDO stated that Kinglake has real potential, highlighted tonight with the new booklets and the venue
itself. Whilst Kinglake is not a Tourism Victoria recognised Village or Destination like Marysville, Lake
Mountain and Lake Eildon, the real opportunity for Kinglake and surrounds is to highlight its product
strengths in nature based Tourism, touring, adventure and food & wine instead.
Cr Dalmau highlighted the beauty and potential of Frank Thomson Reserve. Kinglake with its proximity
to Melbourne could become the new Dandenongs. David Nugent added he was interested in discussing
the future use of the land at Frank Thomson Reserve with Council, as Parks Victoria are limited with what
they can do. He indicated he would be open to exploring the possibility of removing the Frank Thomson
Reserve from the National Parks Act.
Motion: That MRTA approach Council and encourage them to approach Parks Victoria and arrange a
meeting to discuss the future of Frank Thompson Reserve.
Moved: Marcus Gillon Seconded: Arthur Kapantzian CARRIED
Action: Secretary prepare a letter to Council requesting they approach Parks Victoria to arrange a
meeting to discuss the future of Frank Thompson Reserve.
Stan added that a friend of his from Epping had recently picked up an OVG and commented that from
the heading „Yarra Valley to the High Country‟ he had felt it was a considerable distance and too far to
travel. Stan suggested instead describing the area as from Plenty Valley, somewhere recognisable. David
Nugent said it was something the Marketing Sub-Committee needed to look at and the TDO added that a
branding study is being prepared, which will review the „Yarra Valley to the High Country‟ tagline.
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8f) Strategic Outlook for MRTA
David Nugent highlighted the importance of following on the momentum from the forum. Whilst things
have started happening in the Marketing Sub-Committee, there is still further work required. The TDO
added each local LISTA still needs to advise MRTA how they would like the consultation and proposed
structure communicated/how information be disseminated to the broaden industry. David asked whether
LISTA‟s wanted MRTA and Sub-Committee representatives to attend local meetings. Delegates agreed to
this.
Action: Marketing Sub-Committee to arrange representatives to attend LISTA meetings to discuss the
marketing plan.
8g) Backpackers Forum
The TSO explained that the Backpacker Operators Association of Victoria (BOAV) have received a grant
to run workshops. BOAV have employed Bass Consulting to run the workshops and they have
subsequently been invited to Murrindindi and will host a forum at the Alexandra Shire Hall on Wednesday
the 6th of April, 6:00pm-9:00pm.
An overview of the industry will be provided and topics will include how new and current businesses can
get involved in the market. Advertisements have been placed in local media and invitations have been
sent out to LISTA‟s and VIC‟s. The TSO asked for delegates to disseminate information to their members
and encourage their participation. There has been quiet a lot of interest in the backpackers market
recently and it is an industry Shire operators can tap into more than at present. It will also be a great
networking opportunity too.
Further Business Items
Victoria Wissell enquired where is a forum for small business? Is MRTA the forum for support? Where
do new businesses such as Tanglewood sit? Cr Dalmau explained that Council was in the process of
hiring an Economic Development Manager who would be another Officer looking at businesses, as well
as the Tourism Unit and this will be the relevant person to address such queries. Interviews are
currently being held for the role and ideally an appointment will be made by the end of April. At present,
this type of support would have to be gained through the Tourism Unit.
Cr Brown also suggested raising any issues or concerns with your local riding Councillor, or any
Councillor. Victoria went on to explain that many small businesses, including her, are struggling to keep
a float. One has recently closed and she feels she is nearly in the same position and it seems no one in
the Shire can help.
Cr Brown suggested discussing this issue after the meeting, as it does not fit into MRTA. Cr Beales made
mention of the mentoring program at the Whittlesea Shire and explained we are trying to tap into that.
Cr Dalmau added that with the appointment of Bronwyn and Tammy, a presentation was made at the
recent tourism industry forum regarding the different responsibilities of each Officer and there is clearly a
hole that Council want to fill quickly with this new Economic Development position. Council hope to
appoint to this new position someone with clout to get out there, it is a different role to the previous
position.
Cr Brown commented that with the recent RACV Foundation event, the RACV raised $6,000 in Marysville
alone; these events with large numbers of supporters bring in high yield for tourism businesses.
Marcus Gillon raised an issue that Snobs Creek locals are having with three blind corners at Snobs Creek,
that create dangerous situations with frequent logging trucks and school student drop offs. Aside from
safety concerns, having speeds lowered could make Snobs Creek more of a destination, as it is in a lull
and needs a boost to get things going.
Murrindindi Regional Tourism Association 22 March 2005 Page 12
Minutes of Committee Meeting File No. 58/06/13
Locals are interested in lowering the speed limit to 80kph through the Snobs Creek area, as there have
been several incidents for residents, thus making a real focus to slow down. A progress committee is
looking to form within the locale, as this could bring more tourists and promote the area whilst bringing
together a tight knit community. Marcus has already gained support from UGFWCG, local residents and
operators and is seeking verbal support from MRTA for this tourism focused application to see what can
happen.
Motion: Cr Dalmau moved that MRTA provide in principle support to Snobs Creeks‟ position and ask
that Murrindindi Shire Council convene a meeting with VicRoads on site with the Riding
Councillor.
Moved: Marcus Gillon Seconded: Cr Beales CARRIED
Action: Cr Dalmau through Council is to convene a meeting with VicRoads on site at Snobs Creek with
the Riding Councillor to discuss making the area an 80kph speed limit.
Our host for the evening, Victoria Wissell of Tanglewood Restaurant provided a brief history of the
business. The Restaurant has been 12 years in making, with her husband building the establishment,
completely out of recycled materials, with his laborer being Victoria. Victoria described him as a hoarder
and explained that the materials were a collection of things from building sites over the years.
Tanglewood Restaurant opened it doors for business in January 2004 and business has been up and
down, however they are still here fighting. The Restaurant has attracted a lot of people from Melbourne
and is becoming a place where people regularly come to. Sunday trade is good, lots of lunch and
afternoon teas. There is jazz on the second Sunday of each month.
8. Next Meeting
Marketing Sub-Committee – 3:00pm, Monday the 11th of April 2005, Alexandra Shire Council
Executive Committee – 4:00pm, Monday the 18th of April 2005, Alexandra Shire Council
Awards Sub-Committee – TBA.
Official Visitor Guide Sub-Committee – TBA.
General Committee – 6:00pm, Tuesday the 26th of April 2005, Alexandra Council Office
Meeting Room
Meeting closed 9:20pm.
