Barrington Coast, the Mid Coast's tourism moniker has been named one of three recipients of a two year, $30,000 sustainability package from the World Wide Fund for Nature Australia (WWFN)
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Identified a bushfire-prone tourist destination region,the WWFN contribution has been designed to build and return the tourism sector better that before using sustainability principles.
The destination is one of three of Australia's bushfire-prone regions set to benefit from the grant.
Each destination will be supported by WWF-Australia with a two-year $30,000 package that covers all costs to progress through Ecotourism Australia's ECO Destination program.
Ecotourism Australia CEO, Rod Hillman said it was a sign the industry was moving in the right direction.
"Australia's destinations have been impacted by bushfires, COVID-19 and a host of other natural disasters," Mr Hillman said.
A significant part of our visitors' activity time is spent within a natural area or with a focus on the experiences these natural areas provide. We want to continue to build an environment in which ecotourism thrives, offering genuine and authentic ecotourism experiences.
- MidCoast Council (Barrington Coast) destination management co-ordinator, Sharon Bultitude
"To rebuild with a focus on the principles of sustainability will not only help these destinations to have long-term economic stability but ensure that any growth in the region is managed with the natural environment, community and culture at the core," he said.
"Communities that rely on tourism are hurting, but we know when COVID restrictions ease there will be travellers who are hungry for sustainable tourism experiences."
WWFN CEO, Dermot O'Gorman said his group hoped this growing partnership with Ecotourism Australia would lead the charge in helping Australia's nature-based tourism sector get back on its feet and support attractions that are good for people and nature.
For visitors, travelling within a certified ECO Destination provides reassurance that the region is backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and provides high-quality nature-based tourism experiences.
"The Barrington Coast region is highly regarded for the quality and diversity of its natural areas and biodiversity values,"MidCoast Council (Barrington Coast) destination management co-ordinator, Sharon Bultitude said.
"A significant part of our visitors' activity time is spent within a natural area or with a focus on the experiences these natural areas provide. We want to continue to build an environment in which ecotourism thrives, offering genuine and authentic ecotourism experiences."
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