Businesses in the Great Southern region of Western Australia are expressing concern over a notable decrease in tourist activity this winter. Typically, this area attracts visitors for activities such as whale watching, hiking, and camping during the colder months.
The South West National Tourism Organisation of Australia has recognized this decline in tourism and is collaborating with local stakeholders to promote year-round visits to the area.
In Denmark, located approximately 420 kilometers south of Perth, local business owner Christine Weston reported a sharp fall in visitor numbers. “I can confirm that visitor numbers are certainly down,” she stated. Despite a few last-minute bookings, she and other accommodation providers shared with ABC that the downturn in tourists is adversely affecting their earnings. “When there’s a surplus of available accommodations, prices tend to decrease automatically, which impacts our revenue,” she explained.
Weston attributed the decrease in advance holiday bookings to global economic uncertainties. “With the diesel fuel supply being somewhat unstable, there’s a general sense of uncertainty, leading people to hesitate in making long-term commitments,” she noted. She observed that unlike in previous years, when individuals would often book their next holiday immediately after returning from a trip, that trend has changed significantly.
Winter is typically an opportune time to observe the migration of whales off the coast of Albany, which is situated 400 kilometers south of Perth. Tour operator Aaron Franaigh reported a decline in visitors eager to witness this natural phenomenon. “People are being cautious with their finances; no one seems to be looking ahead at the moment,” he remarked.
Franaigh expressed concern about the substantial drop in customers, stating, “Usually during school holidays, we operate at full capacity every day, but now we are only reaching about half capacity. While we have had a few fully booked days, the overall situation is troubling for our business, as this is our primary source of income.”
In the nearby town of Bremer Bay, Fiona Murray, manager of the Community Resource and Visitor Centre, shared her apprehensions regarding the effects of this downturn on local enterprises. “This year appears to mirror the years when we dealt with COVID-19,” she said, adding that rising fuel prices are a significant concern amid global events.
Paul Zip, who operates a whale-watching charter further north in Augusta, has also noticed a decline in visitors. “After 18 years in this business, I’ve observed that the harbor, which used to be bustling with caravans and campers, is much quieter these days,” he commented.
Sophie Zalokar, manager at the South West National Tourism Organisation, acknowledged the difficulties faced by the region. “Visitor numbers in the Great Southern have decreased this winter, influenced by cost-of-living challenges, rising fuel prices, and general economic uncertainty,” she remarked. The organization is actively working with industry partners and local authorities to promote consistent visitation throughout the year, expressing confidence in the region’s resilience and long-term appeal.
Franaigh also remains hopeful that the current decline will be temporary. “All I can do is provide the best tours possible and trust that positive word-of-mouth will help sustain us during this period,” he stated.
