Shellharbour has been announced as the host destination for the 2027 Australian Regional Tourism Convention (ART Convention), Australia's leading annual event dedicated to the future of regional tourism.
The announcement was made at the 2026 ART Convention, with Shellharbour selected following a competitive national bid process.
The convention will bring together tourism operators, destination marketers, industry leaders, government representatives, academics and media from across Australia, providing an opportunity to showcase Shellharbour's tourism experiences, infrastructure and visitor economy to a national audience.
Shellharbour Marina and the Waterfront Precinct Shell Cove. Image courtesy of Shellharbour City Council.
"We're incredibly excited to welcome tourism leaders from across Australia and share Shellharbour's story with a national audience, while highlighting everything that makes our city such a special place to visit,'' Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer said.
"Delegates will experience first-hand the many reasons Shellharbour is becoming a destination of choice, from our spectacular coastline and outdoor adventures to our unique aviation experiences, Aboriginal cultural connections, thriving hospitality and dining scene, and strong sense of community."
Conveniently located between Sydney and the South Coast, Shellharbour offers delegates a unique blend of coastal beauty, modern conference facilities and authentic visitor experiences.
Among the standout locations featured in Shellharbour's successful bid was the Shellharbour Marina and Waterfront Precinct.
"This is a perfect opportunity to highlight the significant investment, vision and engineering innovation that brought the Shellharbour Marina to life,'' Mayor Homer said.
"Through careful planning and delivery, a once largely undeveloped waterfront area has been transformed into a world-class marina and event precinct for residents and visitors alike.
"Today, it stands as a landmark Council project, supporting tourism, recreation, and economic growth, and there is no better setting to host the nation's leading tourism professionals."
The convention is expected to generate approximately $500,000 in direct economic benefit for the region through accommodation, dining and visitor spending, while also delivering valuable national exposure for Shellharbour as a tourism destination.
The 2027 convention will be delivered in partnership with Australian Regional Tourism and local tourism operators, accommodation providers and industry stakeholders, who played an important role in supporting Shellharbour's successful bid.
The event is expected to be held in October 2027 and will provide a valuable opportunity to position Shellharbour on the national tourism stage.
KEY MESSAGES:
- Shellharbour has been selected to host the 2027 Australian Regional Tourism Convention, bringing the nation's tourism industry leaders to the city.
- The convention will showcase Shellharbour's world-class tourism experiences, major visitor infrastructure and growing reputation as a leading regional destination.
- Hosting the event is expected to deliver significant economic benefits and national exposure for Shellharbour, supporting local businesses and the visitor economy.
