By Deanne Jeffers
TOURISM was a major focus at the Visitor Economy Industry Gathering held at The Shepparton Golf Club on Monday, which saw Greater Shepparton City Council announce its new brand image to the local business community, designed to attract visitors and encourage locals to explore the rich offerings of the Goulburn Valley.
“Councillors were briefed last week and to see it officially unveiled today is really exciting for our region, not only incorporating Greater Shepparton, but expanding beyond that to include the Goulburn Valley,” said mayor, Cr Shane Sali.
“We got past the worst of the Covid pandemic and then we were hit with arguably the biggest flood we’ve seen in history and our visitor economy industry were impacted more than anyone. This is about how we bounce back. It’s an exciting launch and I think we’re really excited for a big ‘23.”
The all-encapsulating rebranding, Shepparton and Goulburn Valley, connects the region’s unique and evolving cultures, traditions and contemporary innovations, history and growth and invites the world to Come See for Yourself our bold, independent, and bountiful place.
Shepp & GV evolves the current Visit Shepparton channels and Many Great Things brand to promote the region through storytelling, showcasing the most distinctive and authentic experiences, inviting visitors to come see, feast, discover, stay and celebrate with us.
Major events are integral to attracting visitors and last year Greater Shepparton saw some of its largest ever events bring the community together and boost the economy.
At the industry event, which was the largest in its history, Council released the annual Major Events Calendar, outlining over 15 new major events in 2023 to complement an already high-quality line up.
Highlights include the return of Illuminate festival, new events like Melbourne to MOVE, and a Shepp & GV shuttle bus pilot program to connect locals to regional highlights.
Pre-pandemic saw 1.3M visitors travel to the region and in 2022, 1M visitors that generated over $349M into the region’s economy. With the rebranding and a plethora of new and returning events, Council and the business community look to further strengthen Greater Shepparton’s reputation as a leading regional destination that is open for business.
Stay turned and explore the new Shepp & GV website at www.sheppandgv.com.au
