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Barossa benchmark for wine and food

Media Release | 20 August 2008

The Barossa is setting the Australian benchmark for food and wine tourism, a new report shows.

Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith says the Sustainable Tourism Co-operative Research Centre's latest report identifies the Barossa as a leader in attracting visitors to experience food and wine tourism.

"The report also identifies an increasing consumer demand for food and wine tourism experiences," Minister Lomax-Smith says.

"The Food and Wine Tourism in Australia report shows the Barossa is the best place in the country for visitors to experience the attractions they expect in a food and wine tourism destination, including a rural setting, strong heritage values, established events and a diverse range of activities.

"The findings of the report confirm what South Australians have always known - the Barossa is far more than just a world-class wine region.

"Its food culture is unique, and its calendar of events attracts thousands of visitors each year to enjoy the region's famous hospitality and flair for festivities.

"In the year to March 2008, the Barossa attracted 197,000 domestic visitors who spent 575,000 nights in the region - up 9% on a year ago.

"There were also 892,000 domestic day trips to the Barossa in the year to March 2008 - up 10% on the year to March 2007.

"The Barossa is an important drawcard for attracting Australian and international tourists to South Australia, and we are committed to marketing the region through the South Australian Tourism Commission and Tourism Barossa.

"The past financial year has been an impressive period for Tourism Barossa, and has included the development and launch of the Butcher Baker Winemaker Trail and Rewards Card.

"The South Australian Government will continue to promote the Barossa's unique culture, heritage and acclaimed wine to the world, and this latest report shows just how marketable the region is as a tourist destination."