Minutes of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

Meeting Date: Monday, 28 August 2017

Location: Jervis Bay Rooms, City Administrative Centre, Bridge Road, Nowra

Time: 5.13 pm

The following members were present:

Ms Lynn Locke - Chairperson

Clr Annette Alldrick

Clr Joanna Gash

Clr Mark Kitchener

Clr Patricia White

Clr Nina Cheyne

Mr David Goodman

Ms Annie Cochrane

Ms Catherine Shields

Mr Neil Rodgers

Mr Robert Crow

David Duffy – NPWS Representative

Others present:

Coralie Bell – Tourism Manager

Shannan Perry-Hall – Tourism Events and Investment Specialist

Kristy Mayhew – Marketing Specialist

Apologies / Leave of Absence

An apology was received from Clr Findley, Matthew Forbes, Jo Thomas and Louise Hallum.

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (David Goodman / Clr Gash)

That the Minutes of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group held on Monday 26 June 2017 be confirmed with the following amendment:

- The Accommodation Working Group members noted on page 6 be changed to Catherine Shields, Annie Cochrane and Shannan Perry-Hall.

CARRIED

Business Arising from Previous Minutes

RESOLVED (By consent)

That a copy of the summary of the expressions of interest received from consultants for the Sustainable Tourism Model (reference page 7 of the STAG minutes 26 June 2017) be distributed to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group for their information.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Nil

Reports

TA17.34 Chair's Report

HPERM Ref: D17/258203

The Group discussed how the Visitors Guide was distributed and it was suggested that it could be distributed via Council’s newsletter “In Your Neighbourhood” and featured in rates notice newsletter.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee receive the Chair’s Report for information.

RESOLVED (Catherine Shields / Clr Alldrick)

That:

1. The Committee receive the Chair’s Report for information.

2. The Visitors Guide be distributed via Council’s newsletter “In Your Neighbourhood” and featured in the rates notice newsletter.

CARRIED

TA17.35 Tourism Manager's Report

HPERM Ref: D17/252286

It was noted that there is a typographical error on page 14 of the budget report. The Group was asked to disregard the line in bold under revenue.

David Goodman requested a hard copy print out of Tourism staff structure with names and positions, in large print, be distributed at the next meeting.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Tourism Manager’s report for information and endorse the Destination Management Operational Plan for 2017

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / Robert Crow)

1. That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Tourism Manager’s report for information.

2. Printed copies of the Tourism staff structure, including names and positions (in large print) be distributed to members at the next STAG meeting.

CARRIED

TA17.36 Sustainable Tourism Model & Destination Management Operational Plan

HPERM Ref: D17/261742

Catherine Shields raised concerns regarding the sustainable tourism model and its perceived reliance on collection and input of data. Catherine advised she is meeting with Destination Network next week, where the region’s Destination Management Planning is in progress. The Shoalhaven Destination Management Operational plan will be considered as part of this process. Catherine will advise STAG of the outcomes of the meeting.

Annie Cochrane - Arrived at 5.30pm

The Committee discussed the value of having data available and the members of the Sustainable Strategy Working Group and those who attended the workshops spoke about the following:

Importance of gatering data for the future
Value of the industry overall
Growth rate of the industry
Numbers are trending up and now is time to make sure that research is in place
The importance of the long term sustainability of the industry
The sustainable tourism model will be designed in partnership with stakeholders to be an on-going tool and model
Will feature the four cornerstones of sustainable business:

Business
Community
Environment
Economy and Customer

The Working Group acted under delegated authority to endorse the Sustainable Tourism Model and a contractor has been engaged.

The Group discussed the interactive reporting tool “Dashboard”.

Kristy Mayhew gave a high level overview of the 2017/18 marketing.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group endorse the DRAFT Destination Management Operational Plan.

RESOLVED (Robert Crow / David Goodman)

That Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group endorse the DRAFT Destination Management Plan.

CARRIED

TA17.37 Destination Marketing

HPERM Ref: D17/251426

The Chair congratulated Coralie Bell and the Tourism team on the report, noting the outstanding work done by Kristy Mayhew and Shannan Perry-Hall.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the destination Marketing Report for information.

RESOLVED (Catherine Shields / Clr Alldrick)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the destination Marketing Report for information.

CARRIED

TA17.38 International Marketing Analysis

HPERM Ref: D17/251424

The Committee discussed the alternatives with regard to an international marketing commitment.

Opportunities, changes in marketing, budget, partnering alternatives were discussed.

The Group agreed that Matt from Discover Jervis Bay should be invited to address the Group before a decision is made with regard to making an international marketing commitment.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

1. Commit to 6 months of international marketing with current partner and;

2. Form a working group to further investigate international marketing opportunities and report back to STAG by the end of 2017 on an appropriate international marketing strategy for 2018 and beyond.

RESOLVED (By consent)

1. An extra ordinary meeting of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group be scheduled as soon as possible.

2. Matt Cross from Discover Jervis Bay to be invited to address the extra ordinary meeting to present his international marketing plan for the next 12 months

3. Those Group members present at the extra ordinary meeting are to determine under delegated authority:

a. If a commitment of 6 or 12 months of international marketing with the current partner, Discover Jervis Bay will be made.

b. To form a working group to further investigate international marketing opportunities and report back to STAG by the end of 2017 on an appropriate international marketing strategy for 2018 and beyond.

CARRIED

TA17.39 Events and Investment

HPERM Ref: D17/252016

Note: Clr Kitchener left the meeting at 6:18 pm

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Events and Investment Report for information

RESOLVED (David Goodman / Neil Rodgers)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Events and Investment Report for information

CARRIED

TA17.40 Visitors Services Update

HPERM Ref: D17/255424

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Visitors Services Report for information.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / David Goodman)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Visitors Services Report for information.

CARRIED

TA17.41 Short Term Holiday Accommodation Opinion Paper Discussion

HPERM Ref: D17/256084

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That

1. General discussion from STAG to form a position and way forward.

2. Broadly speaking STAG would endorse the current regulatory framework and would not, at the present time, recommend or support changes or additions to this framework.

RESOLVED (Clr Gash / David Goodman)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Short Term Holiday Accommodation report for information.

CARRIED

General Business

TA17.42 Accommodation Working Group Update

HPERM Ref: D17/252973

Rob Crow provided the following update:

The Working Group met and identified the following main priorities for the short term;

a) Accommodation Audit and survey to ascertain Shoalhaven room numbers and current use (tourist/business/long term etc).

b) Review opportunities for temporary / pop-up accommodation on private land, success here would result in more room numbers in the Shoalhaven quickly.

c) Write to the Destination Sydney Surrounds South Board identifying accommodation priorities and seeking assistance / advocacy with shared goals.

The accommodation audit is complete. Decided to widen the research to caravan parks with cabins as well as motels, serviced apartments and larger B&Bs. Achieved by combining Australian Tourism Data Warehouse accommodation results with internet research and local knowledge.

Letter and survey to each of the accommodation providers requesting information about room number and usage will be completed soon.

It was noted that the the survey will be sent in the near future.

The Group discussed the number of accommodation places in the Shoalhaven that are housing welfare recipents and homeless people.

It was noted that some places are doing this exclusivley. It was agreed that there is a need to have a clear picture on the issue.

Catherine Shields and Louise Hallum are investigating the new Destination Sydney Surrounds South and there is a meeting next week. Gareth Ward MP has set up a working group with DPAC as the lead agency, to consider private sector investment and what the barriers are inhibiting accommodation investment and crown lands for development.

Verbal update from Rob Crow on behalf of the Accommodation Working Group.

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Accommodation Working Group update for information.

CARRIED

TA17.43 Sports Board Update

HPERM Ref: D17/253115

David Goodman advised that the Shoalhaven Sports Board intends to attend business chamber meetings in the Shoalhaven during 2017 and 2018 to let them know about the Sports Board and what it does and invited the STAG to join them.

Coralie Bell noted she attends business chamber meetings whenever possible.

Lynn Locke advised that she will attend the Shoalhaven Business Chamber AGM to talk about what’s happening in Tourism, for example, Riverfest. The Group discussed the possibility of organising an after hours event for business chambers and tourism operators.

The Tourism team advised a survey had gone to business operators to find out preferred times and locations.

Lynn raised the issue of the amount of fees charged to local groups to use the Entertainment Centre.

It was noted that Council will be briefed on this issue in the near future.

A verbal update to be presented by David Goodman, Chair Sports Board.

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the Sports Board Update be received for information.

CARRIED

Other Business

TA17.44 Additional Item - NPWS Plans of Management

David Duffy advised that Plans of Management are available and a map has also been produced showing different tenures in the Shoalhaven, including camping sites. These will be provided to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group members and Tourism by email.

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 6.44 pm.

Ms Lynn Locke

CHAIRPERSON

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 9

TA17.48 Chair's Report

HPERM Ref: D17/344650

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To update members of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Committee receive the Chair’s Report for informaiton.

A note from the Chair:

This will be our last meeting for 2017 and I would like to thank all STAG members for their support and commitment throughout the year.

Unfortunately, one of our Board Members, Jo Thomas, has resigned from STAG. Jo is expecting another baby and with lots of other commitments felt that she could not commit. We will miss Jo and her expertise.

By the time we meet the 5^th Shoalhaven River Festival will be over. The Festival was an initiative of STAG and is a great tourist attraction. I hope you all came and experienced the vibe and the great entertainment and activities that took place during the Festival. We had many more attractions, over both days this year, and I’m sure the community and visitors to the area were impressed with the standard of entertainment, market stalls, Artzone and of course the Fireworks, which are always outstanding.

We have an important item to discuss and need to make a decision at this meeting as to whether or not we invest again in Discover Jervis Bay, the amount we will invest and for how long. Matt Cross gave a great presentation and it was a pity that more STAG members were unable to attend. However, I can only hope that you have all viewed the video footage that was distributed to all members so that we can make an informed decision.Catherine and Rob will be speaking briefly at the meeting regarding the presentation and their ideas on the best way forward.

The Tourism website testing model was sent out to all members and I hope that you were all able to have a look. Personally I feel it is going to be a great website, very interactive and easy to use. It will be interesting to hear your feedback at the meeting.

The Sustainability Workshop was held in both Nowra and Ulladulla. I was unfortunately unable to attend and I look forward to an update tonight from those that did attend.

Plans are underfoot for an Archer Memorial Statue. For those that are not aware Archer won the first and second Melbourne Cups and his trainer Etienne De Mestre, who trained at Terara, is still to this day the 2^nd most successful trainer of Melbourne Cup winners. A sculptor has been chosen and the process of raising funds is underway. As Bryan Martin a member of the Victoria Racing Club and well known race caller said “Nowra is sitting on a tourism gold mine and doesn’t even know it”. This has been reiterated by the success and growth of tourism in Nagambie where a statue of Black Caviar was unveiled in 2013. In fact this statue is the main photo on the Nagambie Lakes Tourism website. More on this exciting venture in the New Year.

I feel we have a great mix on STAG of people from all walks of life and by working together and keeping each other informed I feel we can go from strength to strength. We are very lucky to have the support of such a pro-active Tourism Team.

Looking forward to seeing you all back in 2018.

Lynn Locke

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 12

TA17.50 Visitors Services Update

HPERM Ref: D17/336792

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To give an update of Visitor Information Services for June /July 2017 period.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Visitors Services Report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information

2. Request more information

NRMA Roadshow

We are attended the 2017 NRMA Roadshow at Kembla Grange. We had a stand and gave out information on our area, and answered many questions. We gave out 120 guides to visitors to the stand, as well as another 120 for a regional conference. We were happy to be part of the Roadshow where we showcased the Shoalhaven as the best part of the South Coast to participants ready to travel.

Sussex Pop Up Visitor Information Display

Sussex Inlet Tourism with the support of Shoalhaven Tourism have run the pop up Visitor Information booth over the long weekend in Sussex Inlet. The event was very successful and one we hope to continue to support and grow. There will be training in Sussex Inlet in the coming months to have some of the community formally recognised as part of the Ambassador Program.

Huskisson Mobile Tourism Van in region at Huskisson on the long weekend

Visitor services is trialling being out in region on public holidays. The mobile van was out at Huskisson on Monday of the long weekend. The day was successful with over 100 guides given and positive anecdotal feedback received come community and businesses.

Ambassador 2^nd intake

We are currently recruiting for our next round of Tourism Ambassadors. 14 have expressed an interest, with 9 attending our training day on Wednesday, 18th October and others to be scheduled over the next month. The day was a huge success with the volunteers expressing positive enthusiasm to be part of our program.

The current Ambassadors have been successful in sharing their local knowledge with our many visitors and we continue to be excited about the potential of this program.

Sales and Enquires - 1^st Quarter NOWRA

Nowra VIC	July to Sep 2016	July to Sep 2017	+/-	YOY
Counter Enquiries	3622	4437	815	+22%
Email Enquiries	2616	1719	-897	-34%
Phone Enquiries	2999	2753	-246	-8%

Sales $
Souvenirs	1752	4138	2386	+136%
Books/Maps	2831	2952	121	+4%
Local Product	2471	3885	1414	+57%
Total	7054	10975	3921	+55%

BookEasy	40002	35940	4062	-10%

Insight and comments:

- Overall, visitor numbers to the counter are up on last year by 22%. This is a very pleasing result as it shows that the number of visitors to the new VIC site has stabilised and growing in a relatively short space of time since the move.

- The reduction in emails are indicative of more people accessing their own information online.

- Sales have also shown a significant increase of over 50% year on year.

- These figures indicate the stabilisation and growing acceptance of the new location of the VIS, and the desire for local products

- Sales for BookEasy have been down during the first part of the period. This is partly due to the intense competition from other online providers, and some issues associated with the increase uptake of Channel Managers. After a promotional campaign, sales are up for the month of September YOY and expected to grow with the launch of the new shoalhaven.com website.

Sales and Enquires - 1^st Quarter ULLADULLA

Ulladulla VIC	July to Sep 2016	July to Sep 2017	+/-	YOY
Counter Enquiries	3256	3242	-14	-0.4%
Email Enquiries	18	22	4	+18%
Phone Enquiries	1401	1550	149	+10%


Sales $
Souvenirs	3926	2430	-1496	-38%
Books/Maps	607	836	229	+37%
Local Product	1139	3654	2515	+ 220%
Total	5672	6920	1248	+22%

Insight and comments:

- Sales results for Ulladulla are up over 20% Year on Year.

- The number of souvenir stock range has been physically reduced YOY and as a result, an expected reduction in sales.

- However, it is very encouraging to see local product sales are continuing to grow at the expense of other souvenirs, confirming the desire for locally made products.

There are no exceptions to report in relation to Visitor Services

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 14

TA17.51 Events and Investment

HPERM Ref: D17/337341

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Attachments: 1. E-mail of Appreciation - Dressage by the Sea ⇩

Purpose / Summary

To update the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group on events and investment in the Shoalhaven region.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Events and Investment Report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information

2. Request more information

Past Supported Events (since 1 July 2016)

o Surf Lifesaving NSW IRB State Championships

o 2016 Motocross Nationals

o AFL Junior State Championships

o Surf Lifesaving IRB National Championships

o State Team Time Trials Weekend (Cycling)

o Husky Running Festival

o Men’s Bowls State Pennant Finals

o Women’s Bowls State Pennant Finals

o Shoalhaven River Festival

o Huskisson Triathlon Festival

o XPD World Adventure Race Championships

o Inaugural National Indigenous Football Championships

o PGA Australian Senior Championships

o Fairgrounds

o Callala Ultimate Triathlon Festival

o Big Husky Triathlon Festival

o National Pop Up Cinema

o Shoalhaven Week of Golf

o Grapest 5km Run

o Willinga Park Open Day

o Nitro Circus

o Southern Cross SUP Festival

o Burradise Festival

o Culburra Beach Surf Bash

o NSW Country Junior Rugby Union Country Champs

o IRB Surf Lifesaving

o Winter Wine Festival

o AFL Junior Championships

o Motor Cross Nationals

o Family Fishing Carnival

o State Team Time Trials

o Melbourne Cup Tour

o Chilli and Chocolate Festival

o Huskisson Running Festival

o Escape Artfest

In Progress

· Events

o PGA Golf – Mollymook – 18-25/10/17

o KV Folk Festival – Kangaroo Valley – 21 & 22/10/17

o Long Course Weekend – Jervis Bay / Nowra – 28 & 29/10/17

o River Festival – Nowra – 28 & 29/10/17

o National Indigenous Football –- Nowra – 4 & 5/11/17

o Garden Clubs of Australia National Convention – Ulladulla – 05-10/11/17

o Australian Junior Surfing Titles – Culburra Beach – 24-29/11/17

o Water Polo Junior Championships – Nowra – 23-25/11/17

o Callala Ultimate Triathlon – Callala Bay – 9 & 10/12/17

o Fairgrounds – Berry – 9 & 10/12/17

o Outrigger State Championships – Ulladulla - TBC

o For a full list of events in the Shoalhaven visit http://shoalhaven.com/events/

· Nowra Revitalisation Community Event Workshop was held on 18^th September. My Travel Research will now compile a report to be delivered to the Nowra Revitalisation Committee for consideration, there is also a survey being undertaken as part of the project https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/HelpNowra.

· DNSW Conference Funding – Working through possible project ideas ahead of a submission.

· New event EOI for funding received / in discussion – The Beast 666, Food Truck Festival.

· Accommodation Working Group – Audit complete, surveys out to operators and result collection still progressing. Engagement with wineries on glamping opportunities taking place.

· Queens Baton Relay Event Organisation - Monday 5^th February 2018

· Goodnight Island Tourism Accommodation Development – Working with owner and potential investors to re-ignite discussions and opportunities.

Results

· Tri Husky – Huskisson 24/09/17

o Participation

§ 400 competitors – 84% from out of the Shoalhaven region, including 19% from ACT and 1 person from VIC and QLD respectively and 2 from WA. Average 2-night stay for our of region competitors.

o Funding

§ Funding was withdrawn from the event this year because the event was moved into the school holiday period. There has been a commitment from the event organiser that this will not occur in the future.

o Future Involvement

§ The event may not occur in 2018 due to the development of the new Long Course Weekend Jervis Bay event in October.

· Dressage by the Sea – Willinga Park

o Participation

§ 1700 spectators attended over the two day event. Breakdown of out of region visitors to come.

o Funding

§ No direct funding was provided considering the event fell during the October long weekend, however we did supply Shoalhaven branded bags, visitor guides, Shoalhaven pens and note pads for all the competitors. Councils international interns also attended the event as volunteers. Attached is a letter of appreciation from Terry Snow and Lindsey Stewart.

o Future Involvement

§ An event DA will be submitted in the coming months and we will continue to work with the Willinga Park Events team on future events. Attached is an e-mail of appreciation received post event. Shoalhaven Tourism is working closely with this business to support where possible this amazing asset in the region.

· Escape Artfest – Ulladulla and Surrounds

o Participation

§ Details TBC

o Funding

§ $2,000 to undertake data collection to prove out of area visitation and numbers.

o Future Involvement

§ Considering the festival falls within the school holidays (considered peak time) it will be difficult to justify future funding from tourism. However, the event team will continue to work with organisers to ensure the event continues to develop and grow.

· 3 applications completed for DNSW Flagship Event Funding.

o 2 successfully moved to Round 2 of the process

§ Fairgrounds Festival

§ Berry and SeeChange Festival – Huskisson.

· 1 Application submitted for DNSW Incubator Event Funding for Burradise Festival.

· Festivals Australia Funding Letters of Support – Burradise Festival (Young Coasties component) and SeeChange Festival.

· South Coast Soul Festival concept development complete and event confirmed – Yoga and Wellness Event – Jervis Bay – 11^th – 13^th May 2018.

· Promotion of event and development funding sources through newsletter and targeted approach.

· Winter Wine Festival – working with the event committee to overcome 2017 event concerns including the identified need for the organisers to provide more adequate traffic management plans.

· Flash Camp at Coolendel – October to February.

· Secured World Surfing League Pro Junior Event for 2018 – Dates TBD.

· Secured 2017 Water Polo NSW Junior Country Club Championships – 24^th - 26^th November – Nowra and Bomaderry Aquatic Facilities.

· Event Organiser secured for Queens Baton Relay Monday 5^th February 2018.

· 32 events assessed, approved and permitted in the last 6 months.

· 2018 Visitor Guide Events list finalised.

Up Next

· Events currently working on, not yet confirmed;

o Music Festivals

o Food / Wine / Local produce events

o River events to utilise pontoons

· Flash Camp – Continue to work on more possible sites (both Council land and private), working with International tourism operators, creating the opportunity for a year-round product with scalable bed numbers to meet demand.

· Implementation of SmartyGrants https://www.smartygrants.com.au/ for event funding program.

· Ticket sales through Bookeasy for supported events.

· Development of an Investment / Event Funnel to track success.

· Working with Fairgrounds to ensure a smooth event, meeting with key stakeholders.

· Continue to grow the Investor Database

· Event investor familiarisations

· Industry website development and supporting information

There are no exceptions to be reported.

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 19

Dear Shannan,

Thank you for your support of Willinga Park’s ‘Capricorn Australia Dressage by the Sea’

29^thSeptember – 1^st October 2017

On behalf of the Snow family and all the staff at Willinga Park, we sincerely thank Shoalhaven Council for your support of our event. The riders appreciated the bags filled with goodies, and your volunteers – well I can’t speak highly enough of Chris, Lisa, Elisabeth and Jolien. They all worked really hard and always had a smile on their faces, and we just didn’t want them to leave! PS please send them back!

The feedback from competitors was overwhelmingly positive, and we think they were left inspired about what the future might hold for dressage in Australia. With the help of our sponsors, traders and volunteers, Willinga Park was able give the community a real taste of elite equestrian competition. 1700 spectators flocked to Bawley Point to watch the dressage, and we are proud to report that the event was another hugely successful one. It was a credit to everyone involved in the event. Nine horse and rider combinations were able to achieve scores of over 70% in the Grand Prix Freestyle, a result that has never before been achieved in Australia.

Your contribution is invaluable to the continuance of equestrian events of this calibre in Australia. And also to enable the local Shoalhaven community to be a part of that. So again - thank you.

Yours Sincerely,

Terry Snow, Owner of Willinga Park

And Lindsey Stewart, Events Manager

Results: can be found at http://willingapark.com.au/draws-and-results/

Testimonials:

“Thank you all. It was great to see such a great event on the south coast. I have never seen such beautiful horse or witnessed such an event before & to be given the opportunity to see this I thank you & we will go every time you hold an event.” Maree Jackson, Spectator

“We saw a poster at Bawley Point IGA and booked tickets online. My children had the "best day of their lives!". All (competitors) let our children pat horses and then show them prep and cool-down after event. We were talked through all stages of prep, shown different horse’s personalities, just fabulous. A highlight was when we were watching presentations and one of the girls receiving an award asked my daughter to hold her horse! Now they all want lessons, which they shall get. We will return to (future) events.” Gabrielle McIntyre, Spectator

“Thank you to all the crew for this wonderful event. All the "red shirt" helpers could not be more helpful, plenty of smiles and nothing was too much trouble. Cannot wait to visit again for the next event.” Leanne Ryan

“A huge effort and a magic event to be part of. I'm so glad I can say I was there at the first one. Thanks to everyone who worked so hard to make this happen.” Pamela Bice, Competitor

Media:

· http://www.equestrianlife.com.au/articles/Roger-Fitzhardinge-reports-from-the-final-day-at-Willinga-Park

· http://www.equestrianlife.com.au/articles/Roger-Fitzhardinge-reports-from-the-2nd-day-at-Willinga-Park

· http://www.equestrianlife.com.au/articles/First-Day-of-competition-at-Willinga-Parks-Dressage-by-the-Sea

· http://www.southcoastregister.com.au/story/4949048/targa-ready-for-willinga-photos/

· http://gallery.horsedeals.com.au/index.php?p=event&e=38886-Capricorn-Australia-Dressage-by-the-Sea-CDI

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 21

TA17.52 Tourism Manager's Report

HPERM Ref: D17/338032

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To give a brief outline of the Tourism Manager’s activity over August / September.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Tourism Manager’s report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information.

2. Request more information from the Tourism Manager.

Things I have been across:

Destination 360 Model

What does healthy and long term sustainable tourism look like?

A large amount of time and focus has been on the beginning stages of our new model. Overall, whilst opinions on what is considered “healthy” will always be different, the project has been met with a lot of positivity by all business, community and government agencies alike. This will be a very new way of looking at tourism and is proving to already be an amazing tool for communication and collaboration. Many thanks to those members of STAG Strategy working group who have made time to be involved over the many opportunities with your thoughts and feedback helping to shape the future of tourism in our region.

What’s happened on this project since we last met?

- Shoalhaven Tourism and STAG individual meetings and workshops with Simon McArthur & Associates (SM&A) to work through “what does healthy tourism look like” for our Shoalhaven across 4 key areas, economy, customer, community and environment.

- Internal one-on-one staff meetings with council stakeholders, planning, strategy, community, environment and rangers.

- Presentation to Council Section Managers

- Community Workshops in both the north and the south of the region

- Business Chamber meetings

- Presented to Jervis Bay Tourism at their AGM

- Presented to the Shoalhaven Natural Resources and Floodplain Management Committee

- Meeting with Jervis Bay Marine Park Manager

What now?

SM&A are sorting through all the stakeholder feedback and preparing a draft of optimum conditions for “healthy tourism”, ways these can be measured and recommended adaptive management. When the draft is ready we will then meet again with the STAG Strategy Working Group for feedback.

Throughout Council I have attended or presented at:

- Aboriginal Advisory Committee Meeting

- Group Directors and Section Managers meetings

- Meetings with the Mayor

- Tourism now have an Event Coordinator on a short-term contract, Monica Willis, sitting in our team Queens Baton Relay event early 2018.

Out in region:

- Tourism Team Region visits continue

- Meet and greet with the new Kiama Tourism Manager, Karen Ronning.

- Meet and greet and out in region with new Destination NSW representative

- Radio interviews

- Meeting with State Forests for potential partnership opportunities

- Delivery of Visitor Guides throughout region for school holidays

Tourism issues that have come across my desk:

- Holiday home accommodation and short-term rentals continue to be a much-debated topic with various strong opinions in the community

- Ongoing destination management concerns at key sites over summer with many towns contacting me directly including Hyams, Bendalong and Berry.

Key priorities over the next few months:

- Destination 360 Model

- Visiting Business Chambers to spread the word about tourism

- Christmas and visitors in region!

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 24

TA17.54 Destination Marketing

HPERM Ref: D17/340575

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To provide a summary of Destination Marketing activity for August / September 2017.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the Destination Marketing Report for information.

Options

1. Receive the report for information

2. Request more information

Background

Publicity Update

Trade and Industry News – Awards and Famils

2017 Savour Awards (Restaurant and Catering Association of NSW)

Regional Awards:
South on Albany - Best Contemporary Restaurant

Bannisters by the Sea – Best Tourism Restaurant

Bannisters by the Sea Pool Bar – Best Small Bar

Kohli’s Nowra – People’s Choice for Indian Food

Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Awards

South on Albany, Berry was top 5 in Regional Restaurants for Australia

NSW Tourism Awards – to be decided on 17 Nov at ICC Darling Harbour

Congratulations to Shoalhaven Finalists

Cupitt’s Kitchen – Best Tourism, Restaurant and Catering Services

Cupitt Winery & Brewery – Best Tourism Wineries, distilleries and breweries

Big 4 Bungalow Park on Burrill Lake - Best Caravan and Holiday Parks

Mollymook Beach Waterfront – Best Hosted Accommodation

2018 James Halliday Wine Companion Awards

Cupitt's Winery and Restaurant, 1 of 3 wineries to be rated 5 stars in the 2018 James Halliday Wine Companion Awards.

DNSW Corroboree West Trade Show Famils

International agents visiting International Ready product this October

Good Food Guide 2018

St Isidore remains with one hat.

Publicity – Notable Articles (General Tourism)

Major articles listed below – many can be viewed by clicking the links, some articles still to come.

Publication	Reach	Links / Update
Getaway 30 Sept	931K	Foodscape tours – Bite around Berry https://www.9now.com.au/getaway/2017/episode-33
Sydney Weekender 10 Sept	750K	Rerun – Husky Glamping, Wild Ginger etc https://www.sydneyweekender.com.au/swe-stories/huskisson
Sydney Weekender 24 Sept	750K	Farmstay, raw food operator Berry, https://www.sydneyweekender.com.au/swe-stories/back-2-earth-retreat-berry
Canberra Times + Syndicated (Bris Times) 14 Oct	70K 706K	Best whale watching spots on the south coast https://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/national/act/where-to-see-whales-on-the-south-coast-this-spring-20171011-gyyhka.html
New Zealand Herald TBC	335K	South Coast Whale Road trip ‘Dish Magazine’ organised by DNSW
Australia’s Best Drives TBC	NEW	New TV Show made by the same group as Luxury Travel Australia – paid for them to stay one night. Interviewed Collette Dinnigan at Cambewarra Lookout, spent the day in Jervis Bay and a little time in Mollymook.
Married at First Site Cancelled	909K	Schedule pushed the filming into Oct school holidays and Bannisters could no longer host. Shine still wants to work with us on something else.
Cosmopolitan Bride Nov mag. and website	1.2M	Similar to this – wedding location piece http://www.cosmopolitan.com.au/weddings/honeymoon-spotlight-thailand-22886
The Australian 13 October	495K	Full review – organised direct with operator http://www.theaustralian.com.au/life/weekend-australian-magazine/paperbark-camp-jervis-bay-nsw/news-story/f4b80fbc7680f99136f79fd0b4180294
The Daily Telegraph 29 September	1.2M	Big article on fishing in St Georges Basin http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/nsw/st-georges-basin-now-home-to-monster-flathead-and-huge-tailor/news-story/0dcf31643ca22b5a0d0d8b4e9ff00b7f
Channel 7 News + multiple sites	1M+	Octlantis – Jervis Bay octopi living in communities https://au.news.yahoo.com/a/37143115/octlantis-jervis-bay-site-has-octopuses-filmed-living-together/
ABC Catalyst 22 August	800K	Story on seaweed heavily featuring the Shoalhaven, Nowra, seaweed etc http://iview.abc.net.au/programs/catalyst/SC1602H002S00
‘Now to Love’ online Bauer Media 27 Sept	200K	Best travel destinations from Sydney https://www.nowtolove.com.au/travel/destinations-cities/sydney-weekend-away-holiday-destinations-41246
Daily Telegraph 4 August	1.2M	Pelican Rocks wins best fish and chips in NSW http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/wentworth-courier/pelican-rocks-cafe-at-greenwell-point-win-award-for-best-fish-and-chips/news-story/768275adae3d4ddc68d16f5259db1cba
Domain News Sept 23	400K	Kangaroo Valley is the new inland Byron Bay (real estate) https://www.domain.com.au/news/why-kangaroo-valley-is-australias-inland-answer-to-byron-bay-20170923-gybuu1/

Publicity Update – Foodie Famils

We have just completed a couple of months of Foodie Famils with both traditional journalists and influencers. There has been huge coverage on social media – both Instagram and insta-stories mainly – but most of the articles are still in the works – we have a few here for you to read:

Publication	Reach	Links/ Update
Luxury Travel Magazine	40K Readership, 13K Facebook	2 stories coming – one on Kangaroo Valley + Nowra & one on Milton / Mollymook
Delicious Magazine	575K Readership, 745K Facebook	Fine Dining story coming – in print and online
The Fit Foodie @thefitfoodieblog	61K Readership, 89K Instagram	Waiting on a blog but many insta posts that did really well
Naturally Nutritious @naturallynutritious	144K Instagram, 2K Facebook	BLOG: melanielionello.com/blog/shoalhaven-coast
Eat Drink Play @eatdrinkplaysyd	70K readership, 41K Instagram	Article coming, Instagram posts @eatdrinkplaysyd
Wine Wankers @winewankers	500K Readership, 162K Instagram	Just left – Instagram posting 1000+ likes. Bannisters and Cupitt etc
I Ate My Way Through @iatemywaythrough	72K readership, 26K Instagram	BLOG: iatemywaythrough.com/2017/10/shoalhaven-foodie-trail-ulladulla-milton-mollymook-huskisson-and-berry/
See Taste Do	1M Readership, 20K Instagram	Two blogs: http://www.seetastedo.com/2017/09/travel-diaries-nsw-weekend-escape.html http://www.seetastedo.com/2017/09/travel-diary-things-to-see-taste-and-do.html

June 2018 Quarterly results

(Tourism Research Australia results)

Unspoilt update

Results as of Oct 5:

Campaign Duration - 54%

Visits - 582,792, 50% to target (+14% YOY)

Leads - 195,409, 49% to target (+12%YOY)

Video Views - 483,991 completed views

2018 Campaign: Shoalhaven, on behalf of the South Coast marketing partners, have applied to DNSW for a combined $470K to be matched by Destination NSW for a total $940K campaign. Campaign is in development now, with timings to be Autumn, Winter, Spring and couples and families as the main demographics and talks about new video to be shot with thanks to the South Coast Regional Tourism Organisation (SCRTO) have formally decided to close and have kindly donated some funds to the group for the creation of new video for the 2018 campaign.

Adventure Activations (Spring and Autumn)

Our Favourite Walks:

10,000 A5 books printed and being distributed to operators through our Visitors Centres. The book has been very popular and there has been a huge demand. We have a small amount of social media on adventure activities and walks during Spring, and will launch a landing page and further campaign in Autumn that will include distribution in Sydney and Canberra, social media campaign, publicity with selected adventure publications.

We Are Explorers visit:

The adventure blogger group sent 6 influencers over early October to engage in a five day adventure and capture three videos and 50 images as well as an online campaign with the We Are Explorers site. The activities were based around inland adventure and will fill a gap in our marketing materials including: overnight hike in Morton National Park, Mountain Biking, and overnight Pack Rafting in Kangaroo Valley.

Video live - ‘Our Stories’

Andy our inhouse videographer just completed our first series of videos for our ‘Shoalhaven Stories’ collection. A full series of 6 videos on food and producers has been doing really well across social media – different versions on Facebook and Instagram. Please watch our videos below if you haven’t already.

FOOD SERIES videos can be viewed at:

Sam from Pelican Rocks Greenwell Point: facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1849030441793382/

Danielle From Milk Haus Milton:

facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1840063222690104/

Goodnight Oysters Greenwell Point:

facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1807858375910589/

John from South on Albany Berry:

facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1807745329255227/

Andrew from Mavericks Coffee Ulladulla: facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1807865692576524/

Alex from St Isidore, Milton:

facebook.com/visitshoalhaven/videos/1803804139649346

We are now moving on to Spring videos on Nature, Wildlife and Adventure and will cover operators in the areas of:

ADVENTURE / WILDLIFE / NATURE Series:

Whale and Dolphin Watching

Kayaking and SUP

Shoalhaven Zoo experiences

Bomaderry Gorge with Aboriginal Discovery Ranger

plus some additional operators to be determined.

2018 Visitor Guide

The 2018 Visitor Guide is about to go to the printer. All content has been developed over the past few months, and proofing is underway. We made approximately $50K on advertising and have reduced some of the free listings in the back to have more ads. Accommodation and Dining listings took up 12 pages and have been removed this year. 100K copies will be printed and be with us and in distribution for early December ready for Christmas holidays.

The design has developed over the last two years and editorially the book has stepped it up to the next level with use of imagery and design, credit to Lisa Friebel for her use of design and development of the brand identity. The guide connects with the new consumer experience of building itineraries on the website and connects to much of our video content and rich content experiences online. Please keep an eye out for the book in the coming weeks.

100 Beach Challenge Update

We have had two new finishers in the 100 Beach Challenge online game. A pair of Indian students saw the video of the first finisher – Shane Treacy who completed the game in three months. They took the challenge to finish the game in three weeks and did so.

The 100 Beach Challenge itinerary videos created by Paste Studios have been launched and featured via social channels with the new website. Each itinerary connects with a demographic and suggests a three-day holiday by engaging with product and operators.

Website Development Update

The website is now live on shoalhaven.com. We thank the STAG members who have been testing the site for us and are very excited to have a user friendly site that is based on building an itinerary. The team has worked very hard on launching inspirational landing pages and content along with the launch and related content is served to the user which creates an engaging experience. We encourage the STAG members to engage with the site and send any feedback direct to Coralie.

Digital Marketing Update - Prepared by Georgia Herring

August 1 – September 30, 2017

Facebook @visitshoalhaven

Instagram @visitshoalhaven

Twitter @visitshoalhaven

Facebook @weddingssouthcoast

Visitor EDM

August:

3433 recipients

33.2% open rate

Most clicked link – Granite Falls

September:

3453 recipients

32.8% open rate

Most clicked link – Walks Brochure

Tourism Talk

August:

1174 recipients

29.4% open rate

Most clicked link – Facebook Videos

September:

1163 recipients

29.5% open rate

Most clicked link – Walks Brochure

There are no exceptions to this report

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 30 October 2017

Page 33

TA17.55 International Marketing Analysis

HPERM Ref: D17/345093

Group: Finance Corporate & Community Services Group

Section: Tourism

Attachments: 1. Quarterly update June 2017 - PUBLIC VERSION ⇩

2. Confidential Annual Report (Confidential - under separate cover)

3. Confidential Contract (Confidential - under separate cover)

4. Research - Trade and Consumer Sediment and the potential of the Chinese Market (Confidential - under separate cover)

5. Shoalhaven Travel Experience Research - Travel Reviews - Social Listening (Confidential - under separate cover)

6. 17/18 Partnership Proposal (Confidential - under separate cover)

Purpose / Summary

International Marketing Program for 2017/2018

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

1. Commit to 6 months of international marketing with current partner and;

2. Form a working group to further investigate international marketing opportunities and report back to STAG by the end of 2017 on an appropriate international marketing strategy for 2018 and beyond.

Options

1. Commit to 6 months of international marketing with current partner, and, form a working group to further investigate international marketing opportunities and return to STAG with recommendations on strategy for 2018 and beyond.

Implications: Continue in market whilst compiling research and a more in-depth market review, potentially diversify international marketing strategy. Potential to test the market with quotes from other international marketing companies.

2. Leave as is with current international marketing business partner for the next 12 months.

Implications: The existing partner has performed very well to date. However International marketing is a critical growth area and an examination of opportunities should be considered. Not recommended.

3. Do not continue with current partnership and create a new international marketing strategy.

Implications: Diversify international marketing strategy, resourcing is a consideration long term. A review will take time and there will be a period when the region is not being promoted, risk losing traction in a growing market, not recommended.

Background – Current Business Partner relationship

Asia marketing with current business partner

- Shoalhaven Tourism has been working with the one international marketing business partner for several years. This partner promotes the region into primarily Asian countries as ‘Jervis Bay’.

- Markets serviced by our partner are China, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, India.

- Investment primarily markets up to 40 Shoalhaven products (Mainly Jervis Bay and North) to wholesalers and agencies in international offices and at trade shows.

- The typical traveller has pre-booked a package and is coming to the Shoalhaven ex Sydney for 1-2days maximum. They experience a few products and then return.

- Packages are booked through international agents who take commissions and our business partnership services those agency relationships to continue getting bookings.

- An international bi-lingual website is maintained (inspirational, no booking platform)

Mon 26 February 2018	NOWRA
Mon 30 April 2018	ULLADULLA
Mon 25 June 2018	NOWRA
Mon 27 August 2018	ULLADULLA
Mon 22 October 2018	NOWRA