Port Macquarie Hastings Council is proud to announce it will welcome tourism leaders from across the North Coast next year, after successfully securing hosting rights for the North Coast Tourism Symposium and Regional Tourism Awards Gala.
The annual event is Destination North Coast's largest tourism industry gathering, bringing together operators and industry representatives to share knowledge, build connections and celebrate excellence across the North Coast.
Around 220 delegates are expected to attend, with the Tourism Symposium to be held at the Glasshouse alongside a welcome function and Regional Tourism Awards Gala.
Delegates will also participate in a welcome function and the Regional Tourism Awards Gala, with the venues for these events to be confirmed. The program is expected to include a range of pre- and post-event touring opportunities and destination experiences, showcasing the Port Macquarie Hastings region and its tourism offerings.
Mayor Adam Roberts said securing the event was another opportunity to showcase Port Macquarie-Hastings as one of regional NSW's leading visitor and events destinations.
"Tourism is an incredibly important part of our regional economy, supporting local businesses and jobs across accommodation, hospitality, retail and attractions," Mayor Roberts said.
"This event gives us an opportunity to welcome the people who help drive tourism across the North Coast and showcase firsthand what makes our region such a compelling destination.
Around 60 per cent of delegates are expected to travel from outside the region, with the event estimated to generate more than $114,000 in direct economic benefit for the local economy.
Destination North Coast General Manager Michael Thurston congratulated Council in securing Port Macquarie as the 2027 host destination.
"Destination North Coast is delighted to bring the North Coast Tourism Symposium and Regional Tourism Awards Gala back to Port Macquarie," Mr Thurston said.
"As one of the North Coast's premier visitor destinations, its outstanding accommodation, conference facilities and visitor experiences make it the ideal host for our largest annual industry event."
