Kiama tourism and events manager Karen Ronning was looking forward to hearing about the minister’s plans for regional tourism.

“Destination Kiama was pleased to be hosting and sponsoring the event,” she said.

Mrs Ronning was particularly interested in finding out about the the Visitor Economy Taskforce and any findings or proposed changes to regional tourism in NSW.

“With the restructure of the Destination Networks, we wanted to know how the Minister saw the partnership between Destination NSW, Destination Sydney Surrounds South and Local Tourism organisations and councils best working.”

With the continuing growth in the cruise market, Mrs Ronning said Kiama was set to continue to benefit from increasing numbers of passengers to the area as well as the opportunity to encourage return visitors.

“When the Radiance of the Seas arrived in Port Kembla on Monday, the Kiama Visitor Centre was kept busy welcoming passengers to our area and servicing visitor enquiries,” Mrs Ronning said. 

“Some passengers had made their own way to Kiama and others were on group excursions.”

Mr Marshall said Monday’s forum gave him the opportunity to hear from those who know the region best.

“Gareth Ward has been a passionate advocate for local tourism operators and businesses in the region, and has asked me to Kiama to hear their ideas for growing tourism and how we can support them on this journey,” Mr Marshall said. 

“Attracting more visitors to the South Coast brings significant economic benefits to accommodation providers, restaurants and cafes, shops and local attractions, so it was fantastic to hear about how we can work together to continue this momentum.”

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