It has been wonderful to see visitors and locals enjoying Mandurah this summer.
Our summer campaign which ran across TV, radio, billboards and digital channels, encouraged Perth residents to make a Mandurah moment this year- and we had plenty of West Aussies who did just that! We're lucky that we have so many people who already know and love Mandurah, but we've also enjoyed new visitors who normally would have headed overseas or intrastate for the holidays.
Of course, the visitor economy did come to an abrupt stop with the lockdown last week, to which our local tourism businesses reacted positively and swiftly. While the temporary pause caused a disruption, the conversation I've had with industry has been upbeat and encouraging, with confidence that pre-lockdown trading would return.
As well as 'new' visitors we've also seen the introduction of new tourism experiences. Mandurah Waterbikes launched in December; you can't miss the bright yellow bikes zipping around the waterways. Salt and Bush Eco Tours have also started some exciting new evening tours. The nocturnal wildlife tour which promises some cool interaction with our nocturnal wildlife and a stargazing tour at the awe-inspiring thrombolites.
In what has been a tumultuous 12 months for the tourism industry it's positive to see new products and experiences introduced in Mandurah. Last month we launched our 2021 visitor guide, in it we shine the spotlight on some of our wonderful locals connected to our tourism industry in our 'live like a local' feature. Pop into the Visitor Centre and pick up a copy.
The City of Mandurah has some exciting events lined up with the return of the Endless Weekends program and there's fun planned over the long weekend in March with Fringe Mandurah. Keep enjoying summer in Mandurah and, if you can, continue to support our local tourism industry.
