Hey presto, a year’s tourism promotion for free

Noosa business operators have jumped at the chance for a year’s free promotion and support.

Sarah Graham Hooper with Tourism Noosa membership manager Cathy Mitchell.

In a tough market competing against closed state borders and shutdown international travel, every dollar and promotional edge counts for Noosa business operators who have jumped at the chance for a year’s free promotion and support.

More than 30 Noosa businesses impacted by COVID-19 have signed on to become members of Tourism Noosa, the tourist town’s peak promotional body after its leadership team decided to waive the $280 membership fee for the 2020/2021 financial year.

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The new member businesses have included hairdressers, retailers, take-aways, business coaches and even a magician.

“Now more than ever, it’s important for the region that we work together,” first-time member Sarah Graham Hooper from La Vida Restaurant said.

“I had been considering joining Tourism Noosa since taking over the restaurant, however it wasn’t until COVID that I have had the chance to stop and reflect on the business and how we do things.

“Being a member of Tourism Noosa is a great opportunity for us to meet other businesses Noosa and have this additional support.”

James Howard-Clarke from Noosa Stand-Up Paddle is a returning member of Tourism Noosa whose membership had lapsed due to the tight economy.

Noosa businesses are seizing the chance for some free promotion.

“Sometimes you can’t do everything, when I read about the membership fee waive, I signed up immediately,” Mr Howard-Clarke said.

“We have always appreciated the support they (Tourism Noosa) offer our industry.”

Tourism Noosa CEO Melanie Anderson said the membership fee waive was to support its 600-plus membership base during the challenging time of COVID-19 and is also an exciting opportunity to welcome new members.

“It has been fantastic to see so many businesses jump on board and become members of Tourism Noosa.

“What is particularly interesting is that it’s not just the mainstream tourism businesses that have signed on such as accommodation operators and restaurant, but other businesses that understand the importance tourism is to our region.”

Tourism Noosa board dirctor James Kendall said membership offered access to tourism insights and up-to-date information on what was happening with the coronavirus pandemic.

“Right now, the team from Tourism Noosa are developing a new strategic vision for the future leadership and management of the tourism industry in Noosa focusing on the next two years as we rebuild post COVID lockdown and this will help all Tourism Noosa members and businesses in Noosa” Mr Kendall said.

For membership details head to www.visitnoosa.com.au/membership

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