MidCoast Council recognised for supporting primary producers through agritourism program

RECOGNITION has been awarded to MidCoast Council for its efforts in helping local primary producers diversify their businesses through agritourism.

Council’s agritourism product development and mentoring program recently earned the economic development team a highly commended excellence award at the Local Government Professionals awards.

The program was designed to help primary producers build the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to expand into agritourism and create additional income streams.

MidCoast Council executive manager of sustainable development Rachel Pleasant said the initiative addressed a gap that had prevented many producers from pursuing new opportunities.

“Despite strong interest to expand their operations many producers in the MidCoast lacked the specialised knowledge which limited their ability to aspire, grow, adapt and future proof their operations,” Ms Pleasant said.

Agritourism combines agriculture with visitor experiences, allowing tourists to engage directly with farms and rural businesses while supporting local economies.

Ms Pleasant said the program not only benefited individual businesses but also created wider economic opportunities for the region.

“Agritourism encourages visitors to take part in more activities, creating wider economic benefits for the region,” she said.

“By connecting primary producers with the visitor economy, MidCoast Council helped local agritourism businesses diversify and build resilience during economic, climate and disaster disruptions.”

Council partnered with Sparrowly Group to deliver tailored support to participants.

The assistance included one-on-one mentoring, site visits, financial modelling, experience design, guidance through approval processes and digital business support.

The program aimed to help producers confidently develop visitor experiences while navigating the practical and regulatory challenges involved.

Ms Pleasant said the award recognition was a positive sign that Council’s efforts were making a difference.

“To receive a highly commended in the prestigious awards is another sign we are on the right track and providing assistance where it matters,” she said.

The recognition highlights the growing importance of agritourism as a way for regional businesses to strengthen their operations and attract more visitors to the MidCoast region.