Published on Wednesday, 24 February 2021 at 9:00:00 AM
The Shire of Ashburton is continuing to support tourism expansion in Onslow
At February Ordinary Meeting of Council, Council resolved to contribute $60,000 to the
Onslow Tourism & Progress Association, which operates both the Onslow Visitor Centre and Onslow Goods Shed Museum.
Shire President Kerry White said she was pleased with Council’s decision to invest in local attractions ahead of the upcoming tourist season.
“The funding for Onslow Visitor Centre will support wages for a seasonal manager, purchase of stock for the Centre and cover some operational costs of the Onslow Visitor Centre.
“Onslow Visitor Centre plays a vital role in the provision of travel and service information for visitors to the region, supporting local businesses and events and preserving the historical significance of Onslow through services available at the Onslow Visitor Centre and Onslow Goods Shed Museum.
“Despite the challenges of COVID-19 in 2020, Onslow Visitor Centre welcomed 10,000 people through its doors last season. This is a significant number and one on which we hope to increase given Council’s support in increasing the Visitor Centre capacity, developing tourism products and services and supporting new initiatives.
“Council have also agreed to donate a 12-seater commuter bus, currently planned for disposal by the Shire, and which will be used by the Onslow Tourism & Progress Association to conduct their ‘Hidden Secrets’ tour, a well-received tourism initiative that commenced in 2020.
“The 2-3 hour tour is a major drawcard for travellers and includes visits to the Neil and Judy Baker Shell Collection, Dreamers Hill, an art-filled old water tank and a local church, followed by a morning tea in the community garden.
“Separately, an additional allocation of $65,000 was also endorsed for the appropriate refurbishment of Lot 395 Third Avenue to house The Neil and Judy Baker Shell Collection. The allocation includes operational costs.
“Tourism is a major driver of economic growth in our region and the Shire of Ashburton is committed to diversifying our economy and creating a sustainable tourism industry.
“Onslow and its surrounds offers a unique destination for tourists to explore with our coastal areas boasting some of the best fishing in Australia as a gateway to islands and reefs, while inland we are home to both Karijini and Millstream Chichester National Parks, renowned for their natural beauty, rugged landscapes and clear waterholes.
"Council’s continued support of our regional tourism industry aligns with our Economic and Tourism Development Strategy 2019 by promoting the entirety of the Shire, building strong relationships with local businesses, and establishing a well-connected tourism community.”
The Onslow Visitor Centre operates daily though the Onslow tourist season from 1 April to 30 November.
For media information contact:
Alison Lennon - Manager Media and Communications, Shire of Ashburton
M: 0409 314 140 | E: [email protected]
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