THERE is no denying January has been tough for the residents and tourism operators of East Gippsland in Victoria. Many natural forests, animals, homes and livestock in the north and far east of Gippsland have been lost to bushfire.
However, much of Gippsland has not been directly impacted with many attractions and tourism businesses open and ready to welcome visitors.
Most natural attractions in East and Central Gippsland remain untouched and the region is now experiencing idyllic summer beach weather great for families, friend, short stays and extended breaks.
The ever-popular Gippsland Lakes - including Lakes Entrance, Loch Sport, Paynesville and Metung have plenty of accommodation now and in weeks and months ahead.
The beach at Marlo, the Raymond Island koalas, 90-mile beach, the township of Bairnsdale and the Snowy River estuary at Marlo are all safe to visit.
"East and Central Gippsland tourism businesses have been hit hard by the effects of the bushfires," said Destination Gippsland chief executive Terry Robinson.
"We would like to put Gippsland, particularly East Gippsland, at the top of minds for travellers looking for a holiday for the remainder of summer and into autumn and winter,"
Destination Gippsland has launched a 'Show your Love for East Gippsland' campaign and you can find information about coming back to East Gippsland at www.visitgippsland.com.au.
"We want people to make a promise to plan, travel and visit us in East Gippsland to help our many tourism operators get back on their feet and this new online resource will help people do just that," Mr Robinson said.
Many tourism businesses in East and Central Gippsland rely heavily on tourism during the summer months to carry their business over the leaner months of winter. It is so important, now more than ever, that people commit to businesses, towns and villages that they know, love and trust and book now for future weekends away and holidays in 2020.
You can book your holiday now here
