mmg.com.au

Benalla Visitor Information Centre recently ran a promotion inviting locals and visitors to discover the Benalla region.

Called Benalla ‘Explore Our Backyard’, the promotion was all about exploring the region and experiencing some of the attractions that contribute to the vitality and diversity of our region.

A number of locals took up the challenge with gusto and rediscovered places such as Swanpool Cinema, Benalla Art Gallery and BPACC, along with the region’s award-winning wineries and magnificent landscapes.

A specially designed passport was created for people to collect stamps at each attraction they visited, putting them in the draw for two nights’ accommodation for up to four people at Taminick Cellars’ holiday cottage. This was won by Maryanne Hatters and partner Greg Kirk, who hope to take up the prize soon.

Ms Hatters said it was a good excuse to get out and about in the local area.

‘‘You don’t expect to win anything — you just enjoy doing it,’’ she said.

Taminick Cellars’ Jenny Booth along with Black Dog Brewery’s James Booth agreed the promotion was a great idea to introduce, or reintroduce, local people to the wonderful attractions in our region.

‘‘People really can holiday from their own home — there are different things on every season,’’ Jenny said.

Visitor Information Centre’s Lindsay Thomas said the centre did not only serve visitors.

‘‘It’s there for everyone,’’ he said.

‘‘I encourage anyone to call in to the VIC to see what’s going on in their region.’’

Mr Thomas said the ‘passports’ would still be used without the promotion which would run again next year.

For further information, visit www.taminickcellars.com.au or www.blackdogbrewery.com.au