Regional tourism placed in spotlight

Tourism leaders, business owners and changemakers gathered in Narrabri for the New England North West Regional Tourism and Placemaking Forum, hosted at The Exchange.

This half-day forum, held in June, was hosted by Business NSW New England North West and Narrabri Shire Council, with support from Collective Media, publisher of the North West Magazine, The Courier, Wee Waa News and Gunnedah Times.

It was a highly informative and collaborative day, featuring a key note address from the NSW government’s 24-hour economy initiative as well as spotlight presentations and a regional panel discussion.

Business NSW New England North West regional director Diane Gray was amazed at the incredible level of community engagement and enthusiasm at the event.

“We were thrilled to bring together the region’s change-makers at this forum to discuss the challenges and enormous opportunities in attracting visitors and growing the North West regional economy,” says Ms Gray.

“This forum is about facilitating conversations not just around tourism, but the broader needs of our communities, from infrastructure to liveability and everything in between” she adds.

Ms Gray explained that by collaborating with local leaders and industry experts, the forum aims to identify solutions that will help shape a sustainable, vibrant future for the North West.

Speakers on the day included Narrabri Shire Council small business liaison officer Gillian Goddard, general manager for Destination Country & Outback NSW Lucy White, secretary for Kamilaroi Highway Group Nikki Robertson, and employment facilitator for Local Jobs Program Kate McGrath.

Narrabri Shire Council mayor Darrell Tiemens spoke more about the tourist attractions on offer in his shire.

“Narrabri Shire is a blessed part of Australia, with an array of natural wonders – not least our national parks, encompassing mountains, plains and forests,” Cr Tiemens said.

“Geographically, we’re located at the crossroads of two major highways and serviced by NSW TrainLink, bringing people to our shire from all compass points.

“We’re seeing more and more people discover our shire, highlighted by our strong and growing visitor economy, and local retailers and businesses embracing our unique tourism advantage.”

This event is the first in a series of regional forums, with a second event planned for the New England, to be held in Glen Innes later in the year.