Smooth handover for tourism promotion in the Tweed

27 July 2018

New tourism organisation holds amicable discussions with outgoing operator

The successful tenderer for promotion of Tweed’s tourism for at least the next four years met with the outgoing body earlier this week, in a meeting facilitated by Council.

The purpose of the meeting was to discuss the transition from Destination Tweed to DR Tourism and addressed issues such as staffing, volunteers and visitor information centres.

Council’s General Manager, Troy Green said it was an amicable meeting, with goodwill evident from both parties.

“While no agreements were reached at this initial meeting as both entities needed to refer options to their respective boards, Council was pleased with the professional attitude of the both parties,” Mr Green said.

“There was an ‘in principle’ agreement to work together to produce a smooth and positive transition in the best interests of the tourism industry and the community.”

DR Tourism Director, Robbie Cornelius agreed that the meeting was positive and said DR Tourism was looking forward to working with Destination Tweed through the transition process and beyond.

“We absolutely recognise the great work that has been achieved by Destination Tweed and our broad approach is going to be one that builds on the momentum and success achieved by the organisation rather than starting from scratch,” Mr. Cornelius said.

“It was clear in the meeting that both DR Tourism and Destination Tweed have the best interests of the local industry and its tourism operators at heart, and as such both entities are keen to work together closely in the lead up to October to ensure a positive changeover for all,” he said.

Destination Tweed Chair, Kylie Ryan-Milroy said Destination Tweed looked forward to completing a seamless handover to DR Tourism by the due date.

“As a representative industry body since 1990, Destination Tweed has almost 30 years of local history and relationships and we’re excited to redefine our role via our members to determine how best to continue to support and grow this unique destination and its players.”

At the 19 July council Meeting, DR Tourism won the contract to promote tourism in the Tweed from 1 October 2018. The contract is for four years, with another four-year option.

The current operator, Destination Tweed, will continue to run tourism services until 30 September 2018.