Penny Penfold is the face of the Western Grampians campaign. Donald residents will recognise Penny as the manager of the Donald and District Race Club.
A new campaign is calling on locals across the Grampians and Wimmera Mallee to help support the region’s bushfire recovery by doing something simple but powerful – inviting their friends and family to visit.
Launched on July 6, the YOU campaign reminds locals that, sometimes, the most impactful thing you can do is extend a personal invitation. A long-overdue catch up with a friend from the city, a cousin from interstate, or a mate in need of a weekend away. People are more likely to travel when there’s someone waiting to welcome them. And that someone is YOU.
The campaign highlights the Visiting Friends and Relatives market, one of the strongest and most reliable drivers of regional tourism. These visitors often come midweek, stay longer and engage more with our local cafés, shops, cellar doors and attractions. While many are hosted by locals, many book accommodation, especially when travelling in groups or for longer stays.
Simple Message
“Recovery doesn’t always come from big gestures. Sometimes, it starts with a simple message. Come stay with us!” said Marc Sleeman, CEO of Grampians Wimmera Mallee Tourism.
“When friends and family visit, they don’t just see the sights. They support small businesses, help sustain local jobs and bring energy back into our regional communities.”
This important initiative is made possible thanks to the strong support and investment of local governments across the Grampians and Wimmera Mallee. Their funding of this campaign demonstrates real leadership and a shared commitment to helping communities bounce back – backing local businesses, protecting local jobs and ensuring the region continues to thrive.
Local Legends
At the heart of the campaign is a group of local legends, whose familiar faces and vital local insight are helping to spread this message through posters, postcards, digital and social media content. A short survey will also run alongside the campaign, helping build a better understanding of this important visitor group.
With many businesses still feeling the long tail of recovery and asking, “What can we do?” The answer might be as simple as opening your door and proudly showing off the place you call home.
Locals can visit www.visitgrampians.com.au/YOU to explore the ready-made itineraries from the campaign’s local legends, find deals to share with friends and family, and access easy-to-use invitation templates to help get the word out.
