Councils from across the state will gather in Manly next month to learn more about promoting their destinations and visitor economies.
Hosted by Northern Beaches Council from 29-31 May, the Local Government NSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference 2023 is shaping up to be the pinnacle event of the year.
From embracing the 24-hour economy to running major festivals and events, there will be a range of strategies and case studies for councils to learn from.
Northern Beaches Council Interim CEO Louise Kerr said it was an honour to host this year’s conference.
“Now more than ever, local councils are looking for ways to renew tourism opportunities, attract visitors, and boost local businesses, while supporting their communities. This annual conference continues to equip councils with the right tools to achieve these goals,” Ms Kerr said.
“This event will also showcase the Northern Beaches to visiting councils. Delegates can experience our world class beaches and bushland, explore our vibrant town centres, bustling business and arts communities, and enjoy the very best that our region has to offer.
“What better place to hold this year’s event than beautiful Manly Beach, which proudly made the Top 25 list for best beaches in the world in Tripadvisor’s annual Travellers’ Choice Awards.”
Organised by Local Government NSW, the three-day event will bring together local government staff and Councillors, key industry stakeholders and local operators to discuss insights and the ever-changing world facing future visitors.
The conference program covers a diverse range of topics including the 24-hour economy, sustainable tourism, sports tourism, events based tourism, technology trends, how to access grant funding, collaborating with other councils, benefits of volunteer groups, cultural tourism and how to identify new tourism markets.
Final keynote speaker, world title surfer and proud Northern Beaches local, Layne Beachley AO, will also explore the benefits of wellness tourism.
As part of the conference program, Northern Beaches Council will organise site visits for delegates, showcasing the region’s extraordinary destination offering and unique tourism experiences. Highlights of the site tours include: Manly town centre, Shelly Beach and Cabbage Tree Bay; Manly Art Gallery & Museum; Q Station and North Head; Collaroy Beach; Narrabeen Lagoon; Palm Beach; Currawong on Pittwater; and Brookvale’s art galleries and breweries.
