Are you a farmer, producer or rural land holder from Mary Valley?

Have you considered diversifying into Agritourism or Nature-based tourism on your property? Perhaps you have considered value adding to your existing produce, or you have thought about selling direct to the local market for a higher return. If any or all of these thoughts have crossed your mind, then the following specialist field days presented by Southern Cross University may help you take the right step forward towards realising your idea.

Come along! You're invited to attend either of the following field days. These events are open to all farmers and producers throughout Mary Valley.  Our aim is to provide you with more information about Agritourism, Nature-based tourism and Food tourism.  You'll learn what they all mean and how to get started.

Food Tourism Field Day
Monday 16th November from 9am to 3pm.

Agritourism & Nature-based Tourism Field Day
Tuesday 17th November from 9am to 3pm

Downloadable: "Agritourism, Nature-based tourism and Food tourism" pdf flyer

Cost: $27.50 per person (incl GST) for lunch and refreshments.
Registration: Register by COB Wednesday 11th November to ensure you secure a place. RSVP to Graeme Whittaker phone (07) 5480 4428, mobile 0428 417491 or email your interest to mv.agritourism@scu.edu.au. Venue advised upon registration.

Mary Valley Agritourism Project (MVAP) is a co-initiative of the Queensland Government and Tourism Queensland. Implementation of the project is through Southern Cross University's Tourism Extension Unit.

The region's potential for Agritourism was identified in a scoping study commissioned in 2008 by Queensland Primary Industries and Fisheries (QPIF), Queensland Government. MVAP aims to encourage economic development in the Mary Valley region by linking the two key economic drivers in regional Queensland -- agriculture and tourism.

MVAP adopts a strategic approach that involves state and regional government, industry and community to create a supportive business environment for the growth of Agritourism.

Similar projects facilitated by Southern Cross University in Queensland and New South Wales have resulted in a diverse range of new tourism products and tourism experiences.

In essence, the establishment of new businesses have helped to create more viable and diversified agribusiness and connected producer with the consumer whilst they visit and explore the region.

If you are interested in finding out more about the Mary Valley Agritourism project contact Graeme Whittaker from QPIF or:

Tourism Extension Unit
Southern Cross University
Phone: Gold Coast (07) 5506 9327
Phone: Lismore (02) 6626 9431
Email: mv.agritourism@scu.edu.au