THERE are calls to base the state’s regional tourism network, Destination Country and Outback NSW, in Tamworth, given the city’s proven track record in tourism management.
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The organisation, which aims to grow the regional tourism market, will be chaired by Tamworth local Stephen Bartlett.
Tamworth MP Kevin Anderson said the Country Music Capital was an obvious location to set up shop.
“Tamworth is well renowned as a centre of excellence for regional tourism which is why it makes sense for the Destination Country and Outback NSW office to be located here,” he said.
“Our region has the expertise, talent base and necessary professional networks to support this new organisation in its development stages so it makes sense that Destination NSW look to Tamworth to house the head office.”
Mr Anderson has invited Tourism Minister Stuart Ayers to the city in January to discuss a number of issues and said he would use the opportunity to put forward his case. “I am confident that the Minister will understand the benefits to locating the office in Tamworth,” Mr Anderson said.
Mr Bartlett has more than 35 years’ experience in local government in regional locations, including Tamworth, and Gunnedah.
For the last five years, he’s been the chair of the Namoi Councils Joint Organisation, which is made up of eight councils in the region.
While Mr Bartlett can’t speak on behalf of Destination Country and Outback NSW until he is inducted next year, he is “exceptionally pleased” to chair the organisation.
“I am very much looking forward to working with the other six directors to make Destination Country and Outback NSW the premier visitor destination in regional NSW,” he told The Leader.
“It is an honour to be on the board with the six other directors, who all have a very impressive depth of skills and experience. You can be sure it will be a professional and capability team looking after country and outback Australia.”
Mr Anderson said Mr Bartlett was very passionate.
“I have no doubt that he will use that passion and his experience to drive tourism.”