Local tourism businesses are seeing spending above pre-pandemic levels.
Figures show operators across the Geelong region are seeing a total yield of around $1.6 billion.
Across Victoria, visitor expenditure hit a record high of $35 billion for the year ending in March.
Tracy Carter from Tourism Greater Geelong and the Bellarine said the higher spend was welcomed, given the growing operating costs for local businesses.
“We don’t necessarily want hordes and hordes more people,” Ms Carter said.
“But we would like people spending more money and engaging in more activities while they’re here.
“Spending is an important one but it’s a bit tricky at this time with the economic conditions.”
Victorian Tourism Minister Steve Dimopoulos said tourism was critical to the state’s economy.
“We back the industry because it creates jobs and supports so many Victorian businesses,” he said.
“These are outstanding results for the tourism industry, which has shown incredible resilience and innovation n recent years.”
Picture: File image [Geelong Broadcasters]
