The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is partnering with the Qantas Group in a move that would bring thousands more interstate tourists to Bega and drive more dollars into local businesses.
Qantas and Jetstar routes into Merimbula from select interstate ports are being supported through the NSW Government's Aviation Attraction Fund, ensuring increased capacity is available for domestic visitors.
Liberal Candidate for Bega, Russell Fitzpatrick said the partnership was great news for Bega and local businesses engaged in the visitor economy.
"The NSW Liberal and Nationals Government is making it easier for interstate visitors to come to Bega which will mean more people staying in local hotels, enjoying our local hospitality and spending with local retailers and attractions," Mr Fitzpatrick said.
"Our businesses and community are ready to welcome visitors and show them what makes Bega a special place to live, work, stay and play."
Minister for Tourism Ben Franklin said this initiative would accelerate the NSW visitor economy's road to recovery.
"This partnership with the Qantas Group will see an increase in flights into Bega, delivering economic and social benefits to the region," Mr Franklin said.
"We expect this partnership will support more than 86,000 inbound seats, injecting almost $12 million into the regional NSW economy.
"Over the past 12 months we have secured partnerships with 20 airlines, across more than 25 routes, supporting the delivery of up to 1.7 million additional inbound seats to NSW."
QantasLink CEO John Gissing said this support from the NSW Government has helped make a number of these routes possible and is key to driving tourism in regional New South Wales.
"As the national carrier, we know how important tourism is for regional economies and through this partnership with the NSW Government we will see more people experiencing all that regional New South Wales has to offer," Mr Gissing said.
QantasLink operates to 15 destinations in regional New South Wales with 12 direct interstate routes.
The supported routes are Melbourne to Merimbula (five flights per week).
