They had recently visited the Griffith Visitor Information Centre to learn more about the opportunities that lay in wait for the region. This time, the DRM looked to venture further and speak with businesses and give resources for them to thrive.

The workshops aimed to assist tourism operators in developing their businesses to their full potential.

Destination Riverina Murray NSW General Manager Richie Robinson emphasised the importance in seeking and taking advantage of the tourism opportunities available in Griffith.

“We’re trying to spread the message and provide local tourism businesses as many resources as possible within both Destination NSW and Destination Riverina Murray to ensure they've got everything at their fingertips that can help develop their business,” Mr Robinson said.

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Mr Robinson said it is important for visitors to get a “memorable and great experience” while they are in Griffith as the tourism industry is “highly dependent on experiences”.

One area Destination NSW is focusing on is agri-tourism.

“We want to make sure we celebrate the great food and wine we have in the region, and making people aware when they come here they can have a great paddock-to-plate experience.”

He also said there is opportunity for the winery tourism to expand, and that it is necessary to explore ways to encourage more visitors to stay overnight.

Tourism operator Cassandra Smeeth provided Destination NSW with a catered experience which gave the visitors a greater perspective of the potential for tourism in Griffith.

Both Ms Smeeth and Mr Robinson said the tour was able to provide context and examples for the workshop.

Ms Smeeth said businesses already established “can see the potential for tourism in our area and help to grow our region as a tourism region”.

“But it’s not that straight-forward for some small businesses that are just starting out,” Ms Smeeth said.

“So, these workshops are great – they give you lots of ideas, context, examples of how to do things.

“They are idea generators.”

The workshops were aimed at tourism businesses such as accommodation, tours, and attractions; plus businesses interested in developing a tourism product, such as wineries, breweries, artisan food producers, unique dining experiences, galleries, and gardens.

Destination NSW is currently working on promoting future Griffith events such as Spring Fest.