Tourism Midwest Victoria (TMV) have announced former Victorian minister and Greek community leader John Pandazopoulos as its inaugural chair.
TMV serves as a partnership between industry, and local and state governments, to boost visitors to regional Victoria, particularly focusing on the Pyrenees Shire, the City of Ballarat’s and the Moorabool, Golden Plains, and Hepburn shires.
Midwest Victoria attracts 2.8 million visitors annually, infusing the region with over $700 million, solidifying its reputation as a premier Victorian, national, and international cultural and wellbeing tourist destination.
The tourism body aims to enhance the region’s standing as one of the state’s top tourism spots, showcasing its environmental attractions, rich cultural and social history, notably Ballarat’s gold mining heritage, and its role as a centre for top-quality produce, culinary expertise, and beverages. Not to mention the array of world-class wellbeing and health retreats found in Hepburn Springs.
Pandazopoulos has a weighty CV, he served the Bracks and Brumby Labor cabinets as minister for major projects, gaming as well as minister assisting the premier in multiculturalism. Following a career in politics
He was appointed to the board of Statutory Corporations, and three years ago as the head of Parks Victoria.
His role as Chair will see him take the helm of the board and oversee leading and governing, and overseeing the organisation’s operations.
Pandazopoulos spoke with Neos Kosmos about the importance the region has in the story of Victoria and why this helps write more chapters in its story.
“So much of Australia’s modern heritage comes from the Midwest region that covers Ballarat and four Councils surrounding it,” he told Neos Kosmos.
“The earliest of migration, Eureka and also the losses faced by First Nations people. A stronger reconnection with its past is essential.
“The locals know it is this past that has built its current legacy as a creative region in foods, wine, crafts, events built around wonderful natural attractions.”
He is excited for the role which appeals to his core passions of culture, tourism, and community and what he puts that down to what he says is his Greek ethos of “φιλοξενία” (filoxenia), literally the ‘friend of strangers’ .
“Tourism is a passion of mine as it connects the things that locals love about their area with visitors.”
“Maybe it’s the filoxenia (hospitality) in me.
“As one of Australia’s tourism leaders I look forward to taking on the role.”
One of his first orders of business was to share the TMV’s disappointment in the cancellation of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Victoria, which would have brought an influx of visitors to the Midwest region.
“The cancellation of the games is a massive blow, adding to the challenges our industry is already experiencing – including continued workforce shortages and increased cost of living pressures impacting the budget of potential visitors,” he wrote on the TMV’s website blog.
“The Commonwealth Games allowed us to stimulate confidence in an industry longing for a boost. So, to get the best we can out of this situation, we must continue to advocate for investment into our region and ensure the state government’s $2 billion package compensates for the loss of this significant event.”
Ballarat Goldfields wins Gold Top Tourism Town 2023
John Pandazopoulos, the new tourism boss for the region, can now add another achievement to his list as Ballarat has been awarded Gold as the Top Tourism Town by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council. Despite the gold rush days being part of history, the city continues to shine with its impressive architecture, charming tree-lined streets, and a vibrant array of bars, breweries, and restaurants. The picturesque Lake Wendouree adds a refreshing touch of green oasis, while the iconic Sovereign Hill remains a symbol of the city’s rich heritage. Every day in Ballarat offers adventure and earthly treasures, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s fascinating history. At night, the city comes alive with rich indulgence and captivating sights, as cultures blend harmoniously to create a truly unique experience
For more visit tourismmidwestvic.com.au
