Now, a number of operators from Armidale know the ropes after taking part in a social media workshop at Armidale Regional Council.

NSW Business Chamber regional manager Joe Townsend said tourism is one of the state’s strongest industries, generating more than $37 billion a year.

“With over 198 Million visitor nights in NSW alone, these workshops helped regional operators encourage visitors to stay an additional night in regional NSW. Every dollar which is spent in out towns, from outside our towns, contributes to the economic growth and prosperity of our business community,” he said.

Most businesses involved in tourism and hospitality understand the important role which social media plays in influencing customers to choose their business, but many are struggling to confidently implement a plan and tactics that provide measurable benefits to their business.

Workshops were delivered by Tourism Tribe specialist Liz Ward and 80 local businesses took part.

They learned to use hashtags, video strategies and to respond to positive and negative reviews.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said the NSW Government is committed to turbocharging tourism in rural and regional NSW.

“As a country-base Minister I am determined to ensure that we continue to empower and support businesses, tour operators, hoteliers and visitor attractions, and that means investing in activities which help to turbocharge local economies and create more jobs” he said.