Uralla Shire Council Web Development Officer, Jane Cole, is working towards a massive boost in the region’s web traffic.

She is urging local businesses to optimise opportunities and the number of ‘hits’ that their web sites receive by being strategic with the key words that they use.
“I have been working at Uralla Shire Council for several weeks and I am overseeing the development of a new web site for the council, including the tourist website. As part of that process, I’ve been learning everything that I can about the whole region. I’ve discovered the wonderful wineries, the vibrant communities and the tourism strengths of the local area,” she said. “I’m looking
at how we can maximise visitors to Uralla and promote its links
to the New England region through improved internet practices.
“I would encourage businesses to look around at websites that could act as web traffic gateways for them or are umbrella organisations for their industry, which they can upload to or make links with, learn from what they see and upload fresh content to their own site on a regular basis. Business owners should think of themselves as ‘content creators’ and maintain their site with fresh energy and enthusiasm. It’s easy, it’s cheap to do and an important marketing tool. By using similar keywords for their industry, they attract internet traffic in their direction. Those in the wine industry using the words ‘New England Australia Wines’ on web
pages is a good example,” Ms Cole said.
“I have been researching our key gateway websites, towards achieving increased web traffic into this area, so that tourists know that we are here and what we have got to offer.
“Whether for holiday planning, fact finding or other purposes, the web can play a significant role in growing tourism and business in the local area.”
Short courses available through the Armidale and District Chamber of Commerce in August may be of interest for business owners who would like to learn more about how to manage websites. www.armidalechamber.com.au.

Story: Gary Fry