As we head into Easter, many of you are feeling increasing pressure across the industry.
Recent insights from the NSW Tourism Association reflect what we are hearing from tourism operators. Bookings are softer, lead times are shorter, and visitors are thinking more carefully about how and when they travel. This is being driven by factors largely outside our control, particularly fuel costs and broader cost-of-living pressures.
At the same time, it is important to keep things in perspective. There is no shortage of negative news at the moment, and it can be easy to absorb more of it than is helpful. Looking after your own wellbeing, and being mindful of your ‘news diet’, is just as important as looking after your business.
What we can control still matters.
Telling a positive story about your business and your region, delivering a great experience for every guest, and supporting your team and community are all things that remain firmly within your influence. These are the foundations that build trust and keep visitors coming back.
This may also be a good time to redefine what success looks like. Many businesses started the year focused on growth. Right now, success may look different. It could be ensuring every visitor leaves with a great experience, refining your offering to better align with current market expectations around value, or finding new ways to deliver your product while managing costs.
Small, considered adjustments can make a real difference.
Destination Southern will continue to work alongside Destination NSW and our industry partners to support operators through this period. We encourage you to access the guidance available through the NSW First Program, including the newly developed Quick Tips for Managing Unexpected Change resource, which provides practical steps to help you respond and adapt in changing conditions.
Please keep in mind that you can reach out to our team via your Industry Development Manager if you need support:
- Jenny Robb – Industry Development Manager | South Coast and Snowies | Jenny.Robb@dsnsw.com.au
- Jessica Bryden – Industry Development Manager | Southern Tablelands | jessica.bryden@dsnsw.com.au
Thank you for everything you continue to do. The resilience, adaptability and quiet determination across our industry is what underpins the strength of the visitor economy in Southern NSW.
We remain confident in the strength of our region and the experiences you deliver.
Richard Everson
Read on to discover insights and resources, including:
- Destination Southern on the ground
- New regional product and event highlights
- Industry data, resources and insights
- Southern Yarns in the Hilltops
- Regional Event Fund & grant writing support
- Training, funding and award opportunities