China is Australia's fastest growing inbound tourism market and largest contributor to international visitor spending in Australia. As a historic river port in South Australia, Goolwa is now pushing for Chinese tourist interest.
Community members and Alexandrina Council staff have investigated the possibility of attracting Chinese visitors to Goolwa.
In June, Alexandrina Council mayor Kym McHugh, staff representatives and community members - Brian Wilson and Ali Roscrow - met with Chinese business delegates and their Australian connections.
As part of the visit, the Chinese delegates toured the local area, visiting the Goolwa Wharf Precinct, the Signal Point building and the Murray Mouth.
Mr McHugh said the Chinese delegates were impressed with the region's natural beauty.
"The purpose of this meeting was to build a relationship with the Chinese delegates and to discuss possible future prospects for arts, culture, tourism and sharing opportunities," Mr McHugh said.
On Monday, August 18, at the Alexandrina Council meeting Brian Wilson and Ali Roscrow presented to elected members their thoughts on how a relationship with China would reap rich benefits for Goolwa.
"China is Australia's fastest growing inbound tourism market and largest contributor to international visitor spending in Australia," Mr Wilson said.
"I and Ali Roscrow have met with Mr Kok See, president of the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Adelaide, and there is potential for a larger vision of Chinese tourism on the Fleurieu, centred in Goolwa.
"There are possibilities to develop further the wharf precinct and increase the profile of Signal Point by having a Chinese art and cultural display, which could attract thousands to Goolwa and tap into the Chinese market."
Mr Wilson said Goolwa could begin by hosting a Chinese cultural event every six weeks.
"Let's start out with some smaller events," he said.
"This will make the connection between Goolwa and China active."
Mr Wilson said the events could include dances, art, kite making or cooking classes.
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