Australian and international tourists are flocking to the bushfire-affected regions over the Easter weekend, according to Australian Associated Press (AAP).

Yarra Valley, a famous holiday destination in Victoria, was receiving busy booking calls for accommodations on Thursday ahead of the long weekend.

Travelers once holidayed in the fire-affected areas of the Yarra Valley expressed eagerness to return and provide their support, said Sandra Smith, a staff of the information center in the Valley.

As the February 7 bushfire had destroyed many businesses in the region, it was harder to find accommodation for people than before, she said.

Meanwhile, the state government is also encouraging Victorians to support the bushfire-affected tourism regions, even suggesting they spend their stimulus payments on a weekend away.

"What better way to spend your Commonwealth Stimulus payment than on a weekend away down the Great Ocean Road, on a day spa experience in Daylesford or a nature based activity in the Grampians," Tourism and Major Events Minister Tim Holding said.

(Xinhua News Agency April 10, 2009)