Vouchers boost bookings, non-stop major events & more
In a massive show of support for our river regions, more than 139,000 people registered this week for the first round of our River Revival Voucher ballot this week – and we already have some lucky winners travelling this weekend.
I want to thank everyone – operators and consumers – for the huge response to the Rise Up for Our River campaign. It has made an immediate impact – with more than 700 bookings already locked in for operators in the Riverland and Murray River, Lakes and Coorong tourism regions.
We will continue to work hard now to turn the successful vouchers into bookings, to maximise the impact this program has for flood affected operators. We are also continuing to share the message that the Murray River regions are ready to welcome visitors with or without a voucher.
Voucher recipients can book now until 28 April, for travel until 29 June, so I am very keen to keep a close eye on redemption, particularly during the popular Easter and school holiday period.
If you would like to help amplify the “Book Now” message on your own socials, please access the SATC industry toolkit.
South Australia’s thriving events calendar continues to set eyes on the state. Earlier this week the NRL launched the Ampol State of Origin in Adelaide, ahead of Game One being played at Adelaide Oval on 31 May. This highly anticipated match between the Queensland Maroons and NSW Blues is expected to inject an estimated $15 million into our visitor economy.
But we don’t have to wait until then for our state to buzz with sporting fans, as the inaugural AFL Gather Round kicks off on 13 April. The Premier today announced how the Adelaide Hills will transform into a footy haven, spotlighting the region’s world-class food and beverage in a purpose-built precinct, The Terrace at Mount Barker’s Summit Sport and Recreation Park.
Plus, to make it even easier for people to enjoy all the historic round has to offer in SA, public transport will be free on dedicated Gather Round Footy Express and all regular public transport services with a valid game ticket.
Starting a busy April in the Adelaide Hills, the second Wellness Wander weekend kicks off today. Following the highly successful inaugural event which pumped $750,000 into the local economy last year, the event will again help operators tap into the wellness tourism sector worth $14 billion in Australia.
With Easter just around the corner, I know many operators are preparing for an influx of guests as visitors enjoy their long weekend.
Emma Terry
Chief Executive Officer