Otium Planning Group has recently been involved in discussions with Local and State Governments regarding their strategies for economic recovery post COVID-19 and the 2019 Bushfires. Our discussions have focused on major infrastructure projects that will stimulate the local economy and leave a positive legacy for the community and region.Developing nature-based tourism has featured strongly in our discussions as a smart choice. This is based on four observations:

  1. During “lockdown”, we have seen record crowds of people walking, exercising and riding in our local parks, on our tracks and trails and within our natural places. It is clear Australians are placing a high value on our parks and bushland and that access to nature is a priority.
  2. We anticipate tourism and holiday choices will be heavily focused on our domestic market as we move beyond COVID-19 restrictions.
  3. Evidence from recent nature-based recreation tourism projects has shown that they bring new visitors and deliver substantial economic benefits to local businesses.
  4. Nature based tourism investment builds sustainable jobs and offers long term returns to the community.

Last year, Otium prepared nature-based tourism infrastructure master plans for Western Downs Regional Council.  These included feasibility and business case analysis for four projects: Caliguel Lagoon, Chinchilla Weir, Lake Broadwater and Russell Park mountain bike trails in the Bunya Mountains, all of which will deliver a strong return on investment.  The project benefits included sustainable jobs, building the tourism economy, outdoor recreation for residents and significant health outcomes.

Otium Director, Martin Lambert commented on a recent announcement from Western Downs Regional Council, “We congratulate Council on their vision in announcing a $50M recovery package for the region of which $33.5M will contribute to the co-funding of 11 key tourism projects, including the four projects we worked on last year”.

Council has allocated $2M to prepare the detailed design for the 11 key tourism projects and has set aside shared funding for construction.  This will allow Council to take advantage of future economic stimulus opportunities through State and Federal Government.

For further information on planning for nature based tourism please contact Martin on +61 (0)418 151 450 or via email to martin@otiumplanning.com.au.