Media release - Senator David Van Hosts Round Table in Fire Affected Region

For the past two days Senator for Victoria, Senator David Van, was joined by a delegation of 11 international representatives to the town of Lakes Entrance, East Gippsland, for round table discussions with the Victorian-based consul corps.

The round table included discussion with Councillor John White – Mayor of East Gippsland Shire Council, on promoting regional trade and tourism in the wake of the recent bushfire crisis; a tour of the area; as well as meetings with local business leaders.

Senator Van said he had chosen East Gippsland to show support for an area of Victoria that was at the centre of the recent bushfire crisis.

“Despite the devastating impact of the bushfires on individuals and businesses in the region, the area is safe, open for business and eager to attract visitors.

“By holding the discussion in East Gippsland, we encourage the consul corps to promote the area’s tourism and see first-hand the recovery underway after the bushfires. I encourage the Consuls to reach out to their home countries to break the negative perception of Australia as a travel destination caused by the bushfires

The Lakes Entrance community normally counts on the summer holiday period to sustain itself throughout the year.  The bushfires prompted evacuations and cancellations of tourist bookings causing significant financial impact on the regional community.

Senator Van thanked the Consuls for coming to Lake Entrance. “Each extra bed and every meal brought over these past two days is extra financial support for the local area which have been doing it tough.

Senator Van’s round table began yesterday (20/02/2020) and will conclude today.