COUNCIL'S TOURISM SUCCESS IS DELIVERING FOR THE REGION
Council's latest tourism campaign You'll Be Hooked has registered 134 participants with 60 of those travellers changing their travel plans to come or stay longer in the Shire.
On 24 May 2023, Balonne Shire Council launched an Outback experience like no other with its St George Region: You’ll be Hooked tourism hook that involves a Shire-wide scavenger hunt through its seven picturesque towns, rivers and landscapes.
The I Got Hooked on St George Region Scavenger Hunt gives visitors and locals alike the opportunity to go it alone or team up with family and friends, while immersing themselves in an unforgettable experience that showcases the region's unique natural beauty, vibrant communities, and rich history.
To date, 134 people have participated in the scavenger hunt, of which 94 were travellers from outside of the Shire, and 60 of those travellers had changed their travel plans to come to Balonne Shire and/or stayed longer so that they could complete the challenge.
Balonne Shire Council Mayor Samantha O’Toole expressed excitement about the success of the campaign and the great benefit it is delivering to our local communities.
“The program really is a win-win for locals and travellers alike,” Mayor O’Toole said.
“On the one hand, travellers, and locals, get to immerse themselves in our region's natural wonders and uncover hidden gems while having a fantastic time with family and friends.
“On the other hand, our Shire and our region is benefiting greatly from the economic boost that new intrastate and interstate tourism is bringing to our area.
“We are looking forward to watching this ‘I Got Hooked’ Scavenger Hunt continue growing in popularity and going from strength-to-strength.
“While travelling through the Shire it’s impossible to miss the high volume of travellers visiting our communities and enjoying Balonne Shire's charm, warm hospitality, and stunning landscapes.
The I Got Hooked Scavenger Hunt offers adventure-goers the opportunity to follow the clues and identify the nominated landmark in each of our seven unique towns of St George, Dirranbandi, Bollon, Hebel, Thallon, Nindigully and Mungindi.
With each clue they solve, they’ll collect a colourful town Fish Token to add to the special I Got Hooked on St George Region key ring on which they can proudly display their catch.
Anyone who collects all seven tokens will not only snag the I Got Hooked on the St George Region collectable key ring as a memento of their trip, but there are also great prizes up for grabs including return flights for two people on Rex Airlines!
The Scavenger Hunt will run until 30 September 2023 with the winner announced at the beginning of October. Terms and conditions apply.
Information on the I Got Hooked on St George Region Scavenger Hunt can be found at www.stgeorgeregion.com.au/i-got-hooked