South Australia's spectacular regional tourism offerings will be on show this weekend as 60,000 people are expected to line the route between West Beach and Birdwood to catch a glimpse of the motoring cavalcade taking part in the historic 39th Bay to Birdwood event.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Hon David Ridgway MLC, said that the event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase South Australia's regions.
"The Marshall Liberal Government is proud to support the Bay to Birdwood, it's wonderful to see major events like this one drive visitation into our regional town centres and in the process, creating valued economic activity and importantly, local jobs.
"Regions are incredibly important to the State's tourism industry with 43 cents of every tourism related dollar generated in our state, spent in the regions.
"This year, the highly anticipated motoring event will again lace the regions of South Australia with motoring enthusiasts who come from far and wide to celebrate Australia's rich motoring history.
"More than 1700 entrants will take part in this year's event, showing off everything from classic vintage vehicles to early modern motorcars, motorcycles and commercial vehicles, all manufactured between 1 January 1956 and 31 December 1986.
"With the weather forecast promising sunshine, this Sunday will be a dream run for motoring enthusiasts and spectators alike.
"Starting at Barret Reserve in West Beach, the 70 kilometre route is designed to be the very best 'Sunday drive' that South Australia has on offer from beach and coastal views through to the picturesque surrounds of Birdwood," said Minister Ridgway.
South Australian Tourism Commission, Chief Executive, Rodney Harrex said community events such as the Bay to Birdwood are important to our regions.
"Not only do events celebrate the vibrancy and creativity of our state, but they provide visitors to South Australia with a reason to visit, right now," Mr Harrex said.
"The Bay to Birdwood has established itself as a popular event over the years, which draws large crowds along the route and into Birdwood itself for the festivities at the finish line.
"Our regions rely heavily on having a thriving tourism industry. Tourism expenditure in the regions is currently worth $3.1 billion, that's 43 per cent of our total $7.2 billion visitor economy. I encourage everyone to get out there and support regional SA and the wonderful regional events that are on offer."
The Bay to Birdwood starts at Barratt Reserve, West Beach and will finish at the National Motor Museum at Birdwood in the Adelaide Hills on Sunday, 29 September 2019. For more information visit: www.baytobirdwood.com.au
