Will you take a pledge to visit a bushfire affected town?

As Australia’s tourism industry prepares to take an economic hit due to the bushfires, community-driven campaigns are aiming to draw back visitors and help businesses within affected communities.

The bushfire affected areas have reopened for business, however the number of tourists have dropped even in destinations far from the fires.

Earlier this year, the Empty Esky campaign was launched to encourage people to go on a road trip, with an empty esky in hand.

Empty Esky is a movement of foodies and adventurers supporting local businesses affected by the Australian Fires, pledging to aid in the recovery of local tourism industries and small businesses. The idea is to support regional retailers and producers, many of which depend on the usual influx of summer tourists, by encouraging Australians to hit the road, spend money and fill their eskies with produce to take home.

Travel destinations include those on the South Coast of NSW, North-Eaastern Victoria, South of Canberra and rural South Australia.

Our very own QT Falls Creek was one of the many businesses affected by the fires, and is now re-open and ready for you.

It’s always the right time of year to visit stunning Falls Creek in the High Country, one of Victoria’s premier winter destinations and an outdoor lover’s playground in the summertime.

Whether you’re a skier or a snowboarder, enjoy hiking or cycling, or just need a place to relax – Falls Creek is an all-seasons adventure.

Swap the skis for a mountain bike, rekindle your adventurous inner child and hit the Falls Creek slopes.

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After a pulse-racing day of downhill with Blue Dirt Mountain biking, calm the rush with a well-deserved drink at Stingray and a stay in a luxurious QT Apartment.

Only a 4 hour drive from central Melbourne, grab your friends, an esky and crank some tunes. Your adventure awaits!

words by Cat Spanti