The Hunter region’s tourism sector will receive $1 million in funding to help rebuild in the wake of last month’s deadly storms.
New South Wales’ minister for trade, tourism and major events, Stuart Ayres announced it would spend $1 million on a new marketing campaign to support recovery for the Hunter’s tourism industry.
The funding will go towards creating new marketing campaigns and building existing campaigns to promote the region, as well as extensive support on digital and social media.
“It is imperative the NSW Government sends the message that the local tourism industry is back on its feet and ready to provide the warm welcome that the Hunter is renowned for,” Ayres said.
“The program will convey to potential visitors that the region is not only ‘open for business’ and as beautiful as ever, it is also the perfect location for a short break or a longer holiday.”
Additional funding and promotion will also be spent to support the Dungog Festival later in the year, a region harshly affected by last month’s storms. Parliamentary secretary for the Hunter and Central Coast Scot MacDonald said it marks a “major boost to the region”.
Meanwhile, Destination NSW chief executive officer Sandra Chipchase said it was important the region’s tourism industry was supported.
“Tourism is vital to the Hunter. In the year ending September 2014, the region attracted over 3 million domestic and international overnight visitors, with a total spend of more than $1.4 billion,” Chipchase said.
