The Future of Orbost and District (FoOD) project is keen to hear from local experienced and aspiring tourism operators interested in leading and managing the pilot of a fully serviced premium guided Coastal Wilderness Walk.
This initiative builds upon preliminary work undertaken by the project, including the development of a prototype product as part of an early feasibility assessment phase.
The project’s visitor economy innovation working group acknowledges that multi-day guided and fully supported walks have become a major trend in tourism.
These walks provide tourists with immersive experiences in natural settings, appealing to those looking for unique adventures and deeper connections with nature.
Such iconic walks across Australia have also helped raised the profile and appeal of destinations.
Liz Mitchell, chair of the project’s governance group, a member of the visitor economy innovation working group and an experienced tour operator, said the project had been delighted to have award winning walking tour operator – Alpine Nature Experience – develop the prototype product that will be tested as part of a pilot.
“The prototype describes all of the elements of a potential product and is aimed at customers who are looking for these premium experiences,” Ms Mitchell said.
In a nutshell the proposed walk starts and ends in Marlo, comprises three nights and two days walking (34 kms) – with two nights in glamping tents and local food experiences, is ‘pack-free’ and involves transfers to take in a range of iconic elements of the Coastal Wilderness Walk.
Ideally the pilot will be implemented during spring 2025.
“We’re planning to secure financial support to run the pilot with a small group of non-paying customers who match our target market,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Pilots such as this provide a great way to test all elements of delivering a product and gaining valuable feedback from customers before moving to full commercialisation.
“We’re also prepared to support a successful respondent with necessary training and there is certainly no need for them to have all the necessary infrastructure required to deliver the walk at pilot stage.”
Expressions of Interest close on Friday, March 21, 2025.
The FoOD project is a response to the impacts of the end of native timber harvesting in Victoria’s state forests, and the need to transition the local economy.
The purpose of the project is to build on to Orbost and district’s existing strengths and leverage opportunities for supporting positive economic, social and environmental
outcomes.
The FoOD project is receiving support through the Victorian Government’s Forestry Transition Program.
The project is delivered by the Orbost and District Chamber of Commerce and Industry, which is overseen by a community-led governance group.
