South Gippsland enjoys tourist boon

More than one million tourists head to Victoria's South Gippsland Shire each year, according to a new study.

The study, the Economic Impact of Tourism in Prom Country, indicated those tourists are spending $213 million in the local economy.

Victorian Tourism Minister John Pandazopoulos said the study would help to further raise awareness of tourism and drive more economic benefits for the region.

"Since we came to office the number of interstate visitors to the Phillip Island and the Gippsland Discovery region has grown a staggering 48 percent.

"It's great to see the South Gippsland Shire is also promoting and is investing resources in getting more information on the value of tourism to this region."

The study showed more than half of the businesses in the Shire rely on tourism for their income and that two-thirds of tourism-related businesses expected to increase earnings this year.

29 Jun 2004