Tourism is an important component of the economic landscape in Yarra Ranges Shire. It is important to find ways to support this industry that also complement our communities desire to protect the natural environment. That is why I am particularly interested in the role that nature-based tourism can play in our region. 

The State Government released a new strategy about 'Nature Based Tourism'. And the Shire is exploring ways to progress Nature - based tourism locally. I will be attending a meeting being convened by the Shire's economic development unit to discuss Nature-based Tourism as part of the Shire's Tourism Policy and Action Plan that is in development.

I will be happy to present your views at this meeting and provide the opportunity for you to have a say at the very initial stages of this policy development. I believe good policy and planning needs to involve the community from the earliest stages. Some issues that will be discussed at this meeting include:

1. What opportunities are there for further nature based tourism products - walks, track improvement or development, eco- or historical interpretation of our environment, commercial operations eg flying foxes etc

2. What impediments, if any, have stopped these opportunities being realised in the past.

Please provide any input via the comments button below this message. If you would like me to get back to you about anything include some contact details.