Mr McCurdy last week said the lack of a timeline regarding overnight stays for recreational travel was making it very hard for Ovens Valley businesses who needed the Victorian Labor Government to provide answers about when guests would be allowed back.
“The announcement that overnight stays for recreation will be allowed in Victoria from June 1 will provide much-needed certainty to local tourism and business operators,” Mr McCurdy said.
“This is welcome news for Yarrawonga tourism operators and businesses who are now on an even footing with their NSW counterparts in Mulwala.
“The situation prior to this announcement was making it very difficult for those in Yarrawonga with their Mulwala counterparts already advertising they were opening on June 1 in NSW.
“Business and tourism is already doing it extremely tough in these current circumstances – they don’t need cross-border issues making things even tougher.
“Victoria has to stay on par with NSW with the easing of these restrictions. Consistency is key for our cross-border communities.”
Mr McCurdy said a proposed date for the opening of the ski season also provided much awaited guidance for tourism across the region.
“With the announcement about holiday stays and a proposed date set for the opening of the ski season, local businesses in Bright, Myrtleford and the surrounding towns can now move forward with some confidence and prepare for visitors to the region and overnight guests,” he said.
“Local business and tourism is doing it extremely tough in these current circumstances and I’m glad the Victorian Labor Government has now responded to calls for leadership and direction on the matter.
“People can now plan their holidays to our great region and give the local economy a much-needed boost while adhering to necessary social distancing and hygiene protocols to keep everyone safe and healthy.”
