BENDIGO Walking Tours will be back up and running this week after a brief hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Tour director Jill Hanlon said the tours, which start on Friday, would be part of a wider effort to drive tourism in the region.
"I think more than anything, we're very much part of the Bendigo Tourism push to attract people from regional Victoria to come to Bendigo and spend a day or a couple of days," she said.
"We're excited to be back and enthusiastic about that promotion to people that Bendigo is open for business."
Bendigo Walking Tours will operate between 10.30am and 12.30pm on Mondays, Fridays, and Saturdays.
Ms Hanlon said there would be some changes to ensure the health and safety of those on the tours.
Tour groups will be capped at five people and social distancing will be in place.
Ms Hanlon said she would also take the names and contact details of those participating on the tour, as per the COVID-19 guidelines.
"Given we're an outside activity and able to keep that distance with small group numbers, I am confident we have the things in place to remain safe and socially distant," she said.
Ms Hanlon said the strict COVID-19 lockdown measures had been challenging for the Bendigo region.
"I think it has been devastating for so many businesses - certainly for accommodation and restaurants," she said.
"But I have really admired how Bendigo businesses have taken it very seriously. People have really stepped up and been really responsible.
"We've all supported each other. Bendigo Tourism has led that and been quite innovative about thinking outside of the box."
Ms Hanlon encouraged anyone who was interested in the tours to book here. She also advised anyone with questions to contact her directly on 0427 327 595.
"If all goes well, we're hopping to expand the tours to every second day," Ms Hanlon said. "We really encourage locals to support us."
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