WITH above-average rainfall predicted for the coming summer, Tweed tourism operators are being urged to get creative in finding rainy day options to recommend to our holiday visitors.

Meteorologists are telling us to expect a wet and cool summer, but Destination Tweed CEO believes the region has plenty to offer in rain, hail or shine.

"Go bowling, shopping centres, cinemas, the Epic Skate Rink or just have a really long lunch in a restaurant and drink more wine," Mr Villiers said.

"A wet summer is the last thing we need but we have plenty of options.

"Our visitor centres are always ready to offer advice."

Mr Villiers said the Tweed was no stranger to adverse weather but most storms and rain passed relatively quickly and he was looking forward to a good season.

Northern Rivers Tourism chair Cameron Arnold said the challenge to the tourism industry was to recommend entertainment and activity options that are not dependent on the weather.

"On a broader scale, we also need to foster the development of new products and events that will boost visitor numbers throughout the year, rather than simply relying on the summer holiday peak season that could be - and has been - adversely affected by bad weather," he said.

This message of resilience will be one of the key themes at this year's Northern Rivers Tourism Symposium which will be held at Southern Cross University in Lismore on October 17 and 18.

Guest speakers include Chair of the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), John King, who will look at industry resilience in the face of natural disasters and economic shocks, followed by a panel discussion on successful resilience strategies adopted by tourism operators.

On the program is international expert, Crispin Raymond, who believes creative tourism could provide the solution.

"Creative tourism refers to the idea of holidays that involve learning a skill that relates to the culture of the area you're visiting," said Mr Arnold.

"It is a growing trend now in Europe and Asia where people travel to Italy or Vietnam for cooking classes, Spain and France for art workshops and just about anywhere in the world on guided photography expeditions. With our established food tourism products and talented arts community, not to mention our stunning scenery, the Northern Rivers is perfectly positioned to step into this market.Crispin's presentation will give operators plenty of ideas and inspiration."

Full registration for the 2011 Northern Rivers Tourism Symposium on October 17 and 18 is $350 per person ($300 for NRT members) which includes all sessions, workshops and the Monday night social networking event at the Eltham Hotel.

For details and registration go to www.tourismsymposium.com.au or the organiser, Renae Denny, on 0412 642 688.