Ningaloo Cluster Project 3: the Ningaloo Destination and Data Modelling project

The twin goals of the Ningaloo Destination and Data Modelling (NDDM) project are: to develop a dynamic model of Ningaloo incorporating socio-economic, and load implications of tourism that can be integrated with an ecological model of the region; and to effectively engage with stakeholders to build both trust in the model and group learning between researchers and stakeholders with respect to regional tourism planning and governance. Drawing its methodology from mediated modelling, which developed within learning organisations theory, and sustainable tourism planning, the NDDM project is engaging with stakeholders through public workshops, meetings and disseminating information through newsletters and the regional media. The finished model will be used by regional managers (in particular DEC, DPI and the Shires) to input into land and resource use decisions and by all stakeholders including community groups, the shires and the tourism industry, to collaboratively assess and discuss tourism planning in the region. The NDDM project is gathering primary data through surveys of visitors, residents and accommodation providers, and is engaging with other research projects, industries, and public agencies to gather and share secondary data. To date, the three most significant research outcomes are: four collated tourism scenarios for the region; the results of initial visitors surveys; and an early prototype of the Ningaloo Destination Model, that assesses the effects of changing the visitor mix on activities and accommodation demand in different subregions