Photograph courtesy of Eden Tourism.
6 August 2025
Bega Valley Shire Council agreed to renew two memorandums of understanding (MOUs) at the 23 July Council meeting.
Mayor Fitzpatrick said Council will enter into a three-year MOU with Eden Tourism Inc and Port Authority NSW to support cruise visitation to the Port of Eden, and a four-year MOU with Mumbulla Community Foundation to support community-based activities across the shire.
"The new MOU commits Council and Port Authority NSW to each provide an annual contribution to Eden Tourism towards resourcing a Cruise Coordinator to manage stakeholder engagement, volunteer coordination and coordination of markets and the annual Taste of Eden festivals," Mayor Fitzpatrick said.
"This coming season marks the 20th anniversary of cruise visitation to Eden, which provides a significant economic boost to the shire, showcases the Sapphire Coast to international visitors and inspires ongoing return visitation.
"I congratulate and thank staff and volunteers at Eden Tourism and the broader Eden community for their outstanding efforts to ensure the ongoing success of the cruise industry in Eden."
In the 2024-25 season, 25 ships visited Eden with the vast majority of passengers disembarking to explore Eden and surrounds. Thirty-four ships are scheduled for the 2025-2026 season and 39 in 2026-2027.
Mayor Fitzpatrick said the MOU with Mumbulla Community Foundation recognises the community endeavour of the Foundation and supports the organisation's work to progress the social, cultural, economic and environmental status of the shire and all members of the community.
"While the MOU does not include a financial commitment, Council will provide letters of support for the Foundation where funding applications align with Council priorities and invite Foundation representatives to participate in relevant consultations on social and community issues.
"A Councillor will represent Council at the meetings of the Foundation Board and if a grants or scholarship program is provided during the term of the MOU, Council will provide a representative to be part of the assessment panel."
