Rural tourism - a country holiday option

10/5/00
Rural tourism has the potential to offer a viable alternative to traditional farming operations while at the same time creating stronger ties between rural and urban communities, Primary Industry Minister Monty House said.
Speaking at the Annual General Meeting of the Farm and Country Holiday's Association (FCHA), the Minister said that the association had made significant ground in the development of an agri-tourism industry in Western Australia.
"Farm and station tourism is a relatively untapped market and has the capacity to grow at a faster rate than general tourism and this will mean real benefits for farm tourism operators and rural communities," Mr House said.
"Increased disposable income and leisure time and an aging yet active population are largely responsible for an overall growth in the tourism industry.
"In addition other factors such as the rise in the popularity of green issues, a greater interest in specialty foods and beverages and the appreciation of cultural and natural heritage are all assisting in the increased popularity of farm tourism."
Mr House confirmed his ongoing support having committed $70,000 to the organisation over three years expiring in June 2001.
The funds assisted with the purchase of office equipment, the development of a professional business plan and the production and printing of a starter kit for farm tourism operators.
Agriculture WA through the New Industries program has developed the Farm and Country Holiday's internal and external Internet farm stay accommodation websites.
During the meeting, the Minister launched the revised 'Farms, Stations and Country Retreats Western Australia' brochure outlining a detailed accommodation guide providing information on location, accommodation and rural activities of the association's members.
The year 2000 brochure will be distributed world-wide and will be available on the Internet on http://www.agric.wa.gov.au/farmstay/

Media contact: Julie Cole 9481 2044