A Way of Doing Things

Stakeholders and communities have agreed that the Waterfall Way tourism network should be ‘a regionally partnered social enterprise, sustainably developed and managed’ organised to offer eco- and nature based tourism experiences that are economically, environmentally and socially sustainable.

A foundation of core values underpins the Waterfall Way and a Regional Charter developed in partnership with community members, stakeholders and businesses clarifies the partnership's common vision and aspirations. The Charter promotes a continuing culture of cooperation, self-organisation and broad regional collaboration. The Charter sets out a range of ‘principles and protocols’ to pave the way to long-term, mutual understanding within the partnership. These values help ensure that increased tourism will benefit the region by providing new opportunities and meeting the needs of the communities while protecting local ecologies and sense of place.

Core Values

The partnership between stakeholders and the community is an essential part of defining the core values of the Waterfall Way network. Some of the central ideas include:

• An integrated approach to offering visitors a meaningful nature-based, ecotourism or indigenous tourism experience enhanced by local knowledge and stories.
• The fostering of sustainable livelihoods while preserving the social and environmental qualities prized by the host communities.
• The promotion and demonstration of respect for custodian values and a deeper connection to our country.
• The establishment of programs to ensure responsible stewardship of the land.

The Regional Charter's vision

• Build a world-class, sustainable regional tourism destination with a diversity of unique regional experiences.
• Develop a coalition of partnered enterprises: local communities, landholders, councils, agencies and Aboriginal custodians.
• Manage for the future, while supporting rural communities now.

If you are interested in knowing more about the Principles and Ethos that underpin the Waterfall Way tourism initiative, download a PDF version of the complete Regional Charter Document for the Waterfall Way Tourism initiative, or get in touch with the Project Team members: