In this dynamic episode of the Tourism Hub Podcast, host Despina Karatzias welcomes Linda Tillman from the Tilma Group, as they delve into the pivotal role of regional events in fostering community connections. Valinda shares her insights from the recent ART Convention in Mackay, where she and Stu Spears sparked a conversation about shifting the focus from solely economic metrics to a more holistic understanding of the social value events bring to regional and rural communities.

Listeners will be inspired by Valinda's passion for regional tourism, as she recounts her journey from Wagga Wagga to becoming a specialist in regional events. She highlights the importance of recognising the pride and engagement that events instil within communities, and the necessity of measuring their broader impacts beyond just economic benefits.

The episode also features an exciting preview of the upcoming 2025 ART Convention in Adelaide Hills, where Valinda emphasises the value of networking and collaboration among tourism professionals. With a heartfelt call to action, she encourages listeners to embrace the power of events and to advocate for their significance in shaping vibrant regional communities.

01:41 - Stu Spears and I had a fabulous session yesterday on regional events

06:26 - Rose spoke on Wednesday about agritourism and sparked interest in events

07:39 - The Adelaide Hills art convention will be held in 2025

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Show hosted by Despina Karatzias and brought to you by Tourism Hub in association with Institute Of Excellence.

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