The Sunshine Valley Gazette

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Hinterland Tourism calls for new committee members

Kery Brown, front left, and Hinterland Tourism members at the launch of the Welcome book.

Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast (HTSC) will be holding its Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Wednesday, 9 October 2024, at Montvale in Montville, offering an important opportunity for local business owners and residents to join the team steering the future of tourism in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland. 

The AGM will be followed by a networking function designed to strengthen connections among tourism operators in the region.

HTSC President Kerry Brown, reflecting on her tenure, spoke about the remarkable growth the organisation has experienced over the years.  

“When I became president at Hinterland Tourism, we had a printed map, a website, a wedding guide, and about 70 members,” she said. 

“Today we have 265 members, and in addition to the original offerings, we host two major events, run two online publications, print a welcome guide, and maintain a highly proactive and engaging social media account 365 days a year.”

Brown attributed the success of HTSC to the small but dedicated committee members who work tirelessly to enhance tourism across the Hinterland. “Our view has always been that it makes good commercial sense to work together to bring visitors to the Hinterland. The competition is not the person down the road; rather, it is the vast array of alternative destinations,” she said.

The AGM will begin at 6pm, with attendees invited to a cash bar from 5:30pm. The networking function will commence immediately after the AGM, from 7pm to 9pm. Canapés will be served during the event, and a cash bar will remain available. Financial members can attend the AGM at no cost, while the networking event is priced at $30 for members and $35 for non-members and guests.

With all executive positions up for nomination, HTSC is encouraging those passionate about tourism in the region to consider joining the executive committee. “We would warmly welcome you on board,” said Ms Brown, encouraging interested members to submit their nomination forms by Wednesday, 25 September. Proxy voting is also available for those unable to attend.

The AGM provides an excellent chance for members to discuss the year ahead, including upcoming events such as the Maleny Wedding Festival Trail and the new initiatives to support tourism growth.

For further details or to submit nominations, visit www.visitsunshinecoasthinterland.com.au or email secretary@hinterlandtourism.com.au.

Digital magazine showcases the best of the Hinterland

Hinterland Tourism Sunshine Coast’s digital publication ‘Head On Up’ continues to attract both local and interstate readers, offering a beautifully designed travel e-magazine that highlights the best of the Sunshine Coast Hinterland.

Released bi-monthly, the magazine is designed to help visitors plan their stay in the region, showcasing unique businesses, scenic nature spots, and local experiences. 

“Head On Up provides detailed guides on how readers may spend their time here, encouraging visitors to pack their bags and head on up to the mountain,” said a spokesperson from HTSC.

With affordable advertising rates starting at $50 for a Business Directory listing, this is an ideal opportunity for members to promote their businesses to a broader audience. For more information, email social@hinterlandtourism.com.au.

Event set to kick off wedding showcase preparations

Hinterland Wedding Committee will host ‘Bubbles and Banter’ on Wednesday, 2 October, at Flaxton Gardens as they prepare for the Summer Maleny Wedding Festival Trail. 

The fun morning event is open to anyone interested in learning more about the exciting concept behind the festival.

 For more details and to register, visit www.visitsunshinecoasthinterland.com.au.