Newcastle has emerged as the winner of the prestigious Top Tourism Town award in NSW at the Local Government NSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference held in Manly.
The award is an acknowledgment of City of Newcastle’s efforts to drive visitation and support the local tourism industry.
Mayor Nuatali Nelmes expressed her delight at the accolade, emphasizing the city’s position as a premier tourism and major events destination.
“This accolade acknowledges City of Newcastle’s leadership in growing our city as a must-see destination,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Major events are a key part of our Destination Management Plan as a primary driver of the local tourism visitor economy, delivering both an immediate and ongoing benefit for the community and economy, with greater visitation, investment and liveability outcomes.”
The expansion of Newcastle Airport, set to commence in 2024, is set to create opportunities to attract more international events to the city.
In addition, the Conference heard that the presence of renowned international hotel brands such as Crystalbrook and QT highlights the growing appeal of Newcastle as a tourist destination, with significant investments in new five-star hotels.
The recognition as NSW’s Top Tourism Town sets the stage for Newcastle’s participation in the competition for Australia’s Top Tourism Town title, which will take place later this year.
