Responsible + Sustainable Tourism is a two way street… 

You, our visitor’s actions are just as important as those of our wine and tourism operators.  

It is about:

1. Ensuring our region is a better place for people to live in and better place for people to visit. Now and for future generations.
2. Operators, hoteliers, wineries, restaurateurs, attractions, local people and visitors alike, all taking responsibility + actions to make our “Wine Country” more sustainable. 
   1. Our vignerons support Sustainable Winegrowing Australia, the national program that helps grape-growers and winemakers demonstrate and continuously improve their sustainability in the vineyard and winery by focusing on the environmental, social and economic aspects of their businesses.
   2. Reducing energy consumption - large solar farms are a feature of our region, they provide significant savings in our region’s greenhouse emissions (tonnes CO2)
   3. Reducing water consumption - most businesses in wine country are not connected to town water.  This means water must be harvested and collected in dams for irrigation and everyday use.
   4. Reducing waste:  
      1. Most businesses in Wine Country manage their own wastewater as there is no town sewer.  Water is recycled as irrigation water for vineyards and gardens.
      2. The region has a highly effective program for recycling all of the general waste like paper, plastics + glass are all separated in order to avoid disposal as landfill. 
3. The attitude, you the visitor take + the choices you make. Choosing to respect and benefit the local people, their cultures, economies and the environment. This could include, but is not exclusive to the following communities: LGBTIQA+, Indigenous + handicapped.

• LEARN ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION - Enjoy a rewarding experience by learning more about the natural environment, culture and history that make every destination unique.
• DON'T LEAVE YOUR GOOD HABITS AT HOME - While travelling, continue to recycle; use water wisely, and turn off lights as you would at home.
• BE A FUEL EFFICIENT TRAVELER - Once in your destination, walk or bike as much as possible.
• MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS - Seek out destinations or companies that engage in energy efficiency or recycling programs and that take actions to preserve their communities and natural environment.
• BE A GOOD GUEST - Remember that you are a guest in your destination. Engage with locals, but respect their privacy, traditions and local community.
• SUPPORT LOCALS - As a visitor, the money you spend on your trip can help support the local artisans, farmers and business owners whose livelihoods depend on tourism.
• DISPOSE OF WASTE PROPERLY - Leave a beautiful place for others to enjoy. Recycle where possible, and always dispose of your waste with care.
• PROTECT YOUR NATURAL SURROUNDINGS  - Be mindful of the plants, animals and ecosystems that you impact. Don’t walk between the vines, what is on the sole of your shoes could be a biohazard…