- Pat Conaghan MP, Member for Cowper
Celebrations in Cowper will be in full swing when the Mid North Coast marks 200 years with help from the Morrison-McCormack Government.
Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan said the 2021 Port Macquarie Bicentenary has received $145,000 to help stage an exciting programs of events from 10-18 April to mark the occasion.
"Our community has planned a weeklong program of activities and events that provide an opportunity for our community to come together and commemorate our past, our present and our future," Mr Conaghan said.
"The bicentenary marks 200 years since European settlement of the Port Macquarie region, and locals and visitors will have the opportunity to walk our place and discover the stories that weave together to make the region what it was, is, and will be.
"The centrepiece of the program that is certainly not to be missed will be an immersive light installation, beamed onto the Historic Courthouse on Clarence Street, Port Macquarie.
"We're lucky to have a history and culture that is incredibly diverse, and a community that welcomes everyone who call this place home."
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment Dan Tehan said the Coalition Government was supporting regional tourism through its Regional Tourism Bushfire Recovery (RTBR) program.
"Domestic tourism is so important to regional communities and events, like the Bicentenary festival, will attract visitors to the Port Macquarie-Hastings region, which is good for local jobs and businesses," Mr Tehan said.
"Before COVID-19, domestic tourism made up approximately 77% - or $107 billion - of tourism spend and our cheap flights initiative will help to get domestic spending primed and pumping again.
"Events like the Port Macquarie Bicentenary 2021 are an important magnet for visitors to re-discover the magic of regional Australia."
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Mayor, Peta Pinson said she is looking forward to celebrating with the Port Macquarie-Hastings community.
"I'm excited to bring our community together after the devastating drought, bushfires and the recent flood event, to explore our place and appreciate who we are. We are a community that is strong, resilient, considerate and always willing to work together and we truly appreciate the many visitors to our region who support us through the good and the tough times," said Mayor Pinson.
