The State’s hard border closures as a result of COVID-19 had changed visitation patterns to the South West, with increasing numbers of visitors coming to Margaret River from Perth and around the State over what has traditionally been the quieter period.
In response to this, an educational campaign informing visitors of the Margaret River Mainstreet Makeover has been put together so that those arriving in destination are made aware of why the site works are in place, where visitors can park, and that the shops and main street traders are still open for business.
The collaborative video campaign was launched today, and although primarily an ‘education’ piece, the tone is entertaining and shares the character of Margaret River’s key personalities. The message that traders want visitors to navigate through the roadworks and still have a coffee, dine at a restaurant, and browse the shops is articulated with playful humour.
Shire Chief Executive Officer Stephanie Addison-Brown gave credit to the local businesses and filmmakers who drove the idea and tone of the video.
“Some Main Street traders and the Margaret River Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MRCCI) asked us to fund an idea to create a video campaign that would support a better visitor experience in Margaret River on the back of COVID-19 and in the face of ongoing roadworks – delivered in a light and humorous way.
“The collaboration grew to include Margaret River Busselton Tourism Association and Creative Corner, skilfully produced by local filmmakers Mark Boskell & Darren McCagh from Mixtape Creative & Farmhouse Films,” she said.
Local business owner, Marcelle Egberts from Margaret River Bakery, said shop owners wanted visitors to know what’s happening in the centre of town.
“We want visitors to know, yes there are works going on, but the town is very much open for business.
“With restaurants and cafés still operating under restricted capacities due to COVID-19, it’s best to plan and book ahead to avoid any disappointment,” she said.
The Mainstreet Makeover is due for completion in December 2020.
MRBTA members are encouraged to share the video via their own channels to inform visitors of the site works.
Link to the video can be found here.
Link to available parking and information can be downloaded here.