Warrnambool’s Images Restaurant is making the most of the burgeoning Chinese tourism market.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Owner Jonathon Dodwell has translated his menu into Mandarin, and also advertises in Chinese tourist guide books and maps.
He says its all about “good business practice”, as China is set to surpass New Zealand as the largest source market for inbound tourists in Australia.
Thousands of Chinese tourists are in the country, visiting during Chinese New Year festivities.
"We are getting so many Chinese tourists down the Great Ocean Road," Mr Dodwell said.
"It was the obvious thing to do. A lot of Chinese people have excellent English, but some don't.
"You have to be offering as many advantages as possible and make the tourists feel welcome. It is very important."
Mr Dodwell said he sponsored two Chinese workers, including chef Ken Foo.
He said he had the menus translated into Mandarin by a former Chinese waitress.
"It's all about good business practice," he said.
"If Chinese tourists need further explanation of items on the menu we can get someone to help."
Warrnambool City Council’s economic development and investment manager Shaun Miller said the city offered plenty for Chinese tourists.
“If you are an international tourist, Warrnambool has it all, with our coastal environment, world class nature and superior food and wine,” he said.
“Businesses who ensure international tourists have the best possible time in our city certainly stand to benefit from a sales perspective, while helping to boost the economic growth of Warrnambool.”
The inbound arrival of Chinese tourists is due to grow to 3.2 million by 2024 and the average spend is $4400 per person, while the average stay is seven to 10 days.
Melbourne airport has 56 flights from China each week, and $2.4 billion was spent in Victoria by Chinese tourists in 2016.