2 Methodology and Engagement

Development of this strategy has been undertaken using the following steps: • desktop background research and destination analysis to gain a sound understanding of the regional tourism situation • stakeholder consultation and interviews to obtain first-hand information about current tourism planning, development and management and ideas for the future industry and expert views and advice in the face of COVID-19 pandemic disruption • SoE workshops to better understand Esperance’s unique position • site visit to Esperance to establish a feel for the true visitor experience • strategy development, refinement and delivery.

Shortly after the commencement of the project in February 2020, the Government of WA declared a State of Emergency and a Public Health Emergency in response to COVID-19 coronavirus. The closure of the state border in April 2020 resulted in alternative options needing to be explored to continue stakeholder consultation and interviews, SoE workshops and the intended site visit to Esperance. Stakeholder consultation and interviews were completed by tele and video conference, and SoE workshops with Councillors, the executive group and management were also completed by video conference. The stakeholders consulted and interviewed provided a broad cross-section of those who are currently involved in the local tourism industry. Informal conversations about tourism with local business owners and community members also occurred throughout the course of the site visit. Most importantly, the Esperance community will continue to be involved and have input in the implementation of the strategy through several of the recommendations contained within the strategy. The list of stakeholders that have contributed input into the strategy has been included in Appendix B. In addition, as the majority of the information and data collected during the background research was prior to the disruption of COVID-19 and the significant impacts of this on the visitor economy, updated information has since been applied (where available) during development of the strategy in full dialogue with SoE.