Tourism gathering will explore 'immense' potential of north Highlands
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Efforts to maximise the "immense" tourism potential of the north Highlands are to be set out at a major event in Wick.
Businesses and organisations from across the region will be represented at Venture North's annual tourism gathering at the end of this month.
Venture North is the destination management organisation for Caithness and Sutherland, promoting responsible and sustainable tourism.
This year's gathering in Wick will have introductions from keynote speakers Marc Crothall MBE, chief executive of the Scottish Tourism Alliance, and Chris Taylor, VisitScotland's destination development director for the Highlands and Islands.
NatureScot will highlight the benefits of Unesco designation. The North West Highlands Geopark is a Unesco global geopark, while World Heritage status is being sought for the Flow Country of Caithness and Sutherland.
There will also be a focus on community tourism initiatives involving John O'Groats Mill Trust and Wick Development Trust, and a look at how VisitScotland is supporting "travel trade ready businesses".
Caithness Chamber of Commerce and Developing Young Workforce (DYW) North Highland will highlight careers in tourism and hospitality.
The event will feature practical workshops and networking opportunities.
Cathy Earnshaw, destination strategy manager at Venture North, said: "By working together, we can maximise the immense destination opportunities that the north Highlands hold, while ensuring we care for and protect our amazing environments and the communities that live here.
"This is our third annual tourism gathering. Each one has built crucial steps in our destination strategy by harnessing the collective knowledge and passion of our industry, and by creating new ideas and collaborations.
"With new legislation such as a potential visitor levy on the horizon, it is essential that views from the north Highlands are part of future consultations and planning for the benefit of all."
The gathering takes place at Mackays Hotel in Wick on Thursday, March 28. It is supported by Caithness Chamber of Commerce and DYW North Highland, Highlands and Islands Enterprise, NRS Dounreay and VisitScotland.
There is a waiting list for tickets to the event and reservations for these can be made via the Eventbrite website or by emailing info@venture-north.co.uk
Trudy Morris, chief executive of Caithness Chamber of Commerce and the DYW North Highland lead, said: "Caithness Chamber of Commerce and Developing the Young Workforce North Highland are delighted to be principal sponsors for the Venture North Tourism Gathering 2024.
"The north Highland region is an exceptional tourist destination, showcasing breathtaking landscapes, rich history and unique cultural experiences that appeal to visitors from every corner of the globe.
"The region offers an authentic and warm Highland welcome to visitors throughout the year.
"Facilitating connections for young people to opportunities within our renowned hospitality and tourism sector is crucial. It opens doors to a range of rewarding career paths, nurtures skill enhancement and plays a pivotal role in driving local economic prosperity.
"The event offers businesses a unique opportunity to network and make valuable connections with fellow hospitality businesses and organisations. It also gives DYW North Highland insight into how we can work collaboratively and showcase hospitality and tourism as a career of choice, which will help ensure businesses are equipped with the skills they need to thrive."
