To participate in the Winter Stay and Play campaign, operators were asked to provide a hot deal or special offer, only available during winter time.

Grampians Tourism has taken out advertisements in a range of magazines, newspapers, radio and outdoor advertising in Melbourne and Adelaide, as well as on popular internet sites.

All advertisements highlight that there are a range of special deals and offers now available, from extra nights at Bed and Breakfast venues, hotels and caravan parks, bonus bottles at cellar doors and many other enticing offers. All of the 38 deals and offers are included on the official Grampians website www.visitgrampians.com.au.

A 12 page brochure insert featuring all the deals and offers, with a regional map and other information and has been printed for distribution within the well known lifestyle magazine; `delicious'.

``With more and more consumers now using the internet to research for the next short break, we have also used some other techniques such as electronic direct mail and Enewsletters to spread the word,'' Chris Burchett, chief executive officer of Grampians Tourism said.

``Although early days, we have had some positive feedback from participating operators reporting that enquiries and bookings are coming through.''

Grampians Tourism represents the five local government areas of Ararat and Horsham Rural Cities, Northern Grampians, Southern Grampians and Pyrenees Shire Councils.