Agenda of Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

Minutes of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

Meeting Date: Monday, 6 May 2019

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

Time: 5.04pm

The following members were present:

Mr Robert Crow - Chairperson

Mr David Goodman

Mr Neil Rodgers – via Teleconference

Dr James Lin

Mr Mat Lock

Mr Mark Thirlwall

Mr David Fleeting

Others Present:

Clr Patricia White

Stephen Dunshea – Acting General Manager

Coralie Bell – Tourism Manager

Shannan Perry-Hall – Tourism Investments and Events Specialist

Kristy Mayhew – Tourism Marketing Specialist

Joe Puglisi – Visitor Services Manager

Lynn Locke

TA19.14 Election of Office Bearers

HPERM Ref: D19/113815

Coralie Bell – Tourism Manager called for nominations for Chairperson

Rob Crow nominated himself as Chairperson

David Goodman nominated Mark Thirlwall, who declined the nomination as Chairperson.

Rob Crow was unanimously declared Chairperson.

Coralie Bell – Tourism Manager called for nominations for Deputy Chairperson

David Goodman nominated Mark Thirlwall as Deputy Chairperson. Mark Thirlwall accepted the nomination.

Mark Thirlwall was declared Deputy Chairperson.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group conduct elections for Office Bearers.

1. Chair of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group.

2. Deputy Chair of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group.

RESOLVED (By consent)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group appoint the following Office Bearers for the period until May 2019:

1. Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Rob Crow.

2. Deputy Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Mark Thirlwall.

CARRIED

Rob Crow acknowledged Lynn Locke for her time and her level of commitment to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group and Tourism in the Shoalhaven. Also, for her commitment to the Shoalhaven River Festival.

Apologies / Leave of Absence

An apology was received from Clr Gash, Clr Alldrick, Clr Kitchener, Clr Pakes, David Duffy, Brenda Sambrook, Juliet Barr, Kylie Pickett.

Confirmation of the Minutes

RESOLVED (David Goodman / James Lin)

That the Minutes of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group held on Monday 25 February 2019 be confirmed.

CARRIED

Declarations of Interest

Nil

Presentations

TA19.10 Councillor Updates

HPERM Ref: D19/107776

Stephen Dunshea – Acting General Manager and Coralie Bell – Tourism Manager advised the meeting that two recent Notice of Motions were submitted to the Council meeting of 30 April 2019 in relation to:

· Jet Skis - Jervis Bay

· Aboriginal Tourism Development

The Agenda and Minutes can be viewed via the following link:

http://shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/My-Council/Council-meetings/Agendas-and-minutes

TA19.11 Industry Feedback

HPERM Ref: D19/107778

Members of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group mentioned that they have received feedback from members of the community and visitors to the region that they do not feel comfortable or safe walking around the CBD in the evening.

RESOLVED (Robert Crow / David Fleeting)

That:

1. The Chairperson of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group (STAG) make representations to a meeting of the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee advising that members of STAG have received feedback from members of the public and visitors that they do not feel safe walking around the CBD at night.

2. The Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group request that the Nowra CBD Revitalisation Strategy Committee investigate ways to improve lighting in the CBD and other initiatives to improve the safety and vibe at night.

CARRIED

TA19.12 Sports Board Update

HPERM Ref: D19/107779

David Goodman advised that Council recently adopted 2 additional positions be added to the Sports Board membership being Martin Aicken and Gemma Afflick.

Stephen Dunshea – Acting General Manager advised, that Council at its meeting on 30 April 2019, reconvened 2 May 2019 resolved to add two (2) extra membership positions being from disadvantaged sporting groups.

David Goodman advised that he recently represented the Sports Board at the Golf NSW event at Shoalhaven Heads where approximately 198 golfers played over 4 days. The Male winner was from Shellharbour and the Female winner was from Coffs Harbour.

Shoalhaven Tourism partnered with the Shoalhaven Heads Golf Club to bring the event to the region.

Shoalhaven Tourism has also supported the Aboriginal Soccer event at South Nowra for the 4^th year.

Reports

TA19.14 Election of Office Bearers

HPERM Ref: D19/113815

Item dealt with earlier in the meeting.

TA19.21 Appointment - New Members to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group - 2019

HPERM Ref: D19/105237

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Tourism Advisory Group receive the report for information and:

1. Welcome to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group Committee the following members:

a. Mr Rob Crowe

b. Mr Mat Lock

c. Mr Mark Thirwall

d. Mr David Fleeting

e. Mr Neil Rodgers

2. Formally acknowledge and thank retiring members for the valued contribution to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group: Special thanks to Lynn Locke for her extended service, including many years as Chair, and Paul McLeod, and Louise Hallum.

RESOLVED (Mat Lock / David Goodman)

That the Tourism Advisory Group receive the report for information and:

1. Welcome to the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group Committee the following members:

a. Mr Rob Crowe for an additional Term

b. Mr Neil Rodgers for an additional Term

c. Mr Mat Lock

d. Mr Mark Thirwall

e. Mr David Fleeting

CARRIED

TA19.13 Traffic Report - Owen Street, Huskisson

HPERM Ref: D19/74410

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the report from the Shoalhaven Traffic Committee be received for information.

RESOLVED (David Goodman / Robert Crow)

That the report from the Shoalhaven Traffic Committee be received for information.

CARRIED

TA19.15 Tourism Manager's Report

HPERM Ref: D19/107766

Coralie Bell - Tourism Manager advised that there were no exceptions to the Report and added that she has been seconded as the Section Manager of Community Recreation and Culture and Shannan Perry-Hall is assisting with parts of the Tourism Manager Role.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

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

RESOLVED (David Fleeting / Mark Thirlwall)

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

CARRIED

TA19.16 Destination Marketing

HPERM Ref: D19/102873

Kristy Mayhew - Tourism Marketing Specialist advised that there were no exceptions to the report and presented the Art and Culture Brochure.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

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

RESOLVED (Mat Lock / James Lin)

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

CARRIED

TA19.17 Events and Investment

HPERM Ref: D19/107084

Shannan Perry-Hall advised the Big Country Festival in Berry is on this weekend 11 May 2019 and members of the Group can go to events like this.

The Willinga Park World Championship Gold Buckle Campdraft 2019 is being held on 16-18 May 2019.

The Bomaderry Indoor Sporting Centre is due to be completed in September and is currently undergoing internal fit-out.

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 / James Lin)

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

CARRIED

TA19.18 Visitor Services Update January to March 2019

HPERM Ref: D19/110952

Joe Puglisi – Visitor Services Manager advised that most businesses reported a reasonably good shoulder season.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

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

RESOLVED (Mat Lock / Mark Thirlwall)

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

CARRIED

TA19.19 River Festival Committee Update

HPERM Ref: D19/107123

Note: Clr White left the meeting at 6.00pm

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

1. Receive the report for information

2. Recommend to Council that members, as detailed below, be officially appointed to the River Festival Committee.

RECOMMENDATION (David Goodman / James Lin)

That:

1. The Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group receive the report for information; and recommend to Council;

2. Members, as detailed below, be officially appointed to the River Festival Committee:

a. Paul Greene, Chair

b. David Fleeting, Deputy Chair and Marina

c. Karina Whipp, Secretary

d. Gary Wells, Treasurer

e. Lynn Locke, Event Ambassador

f. Greg Stephenson, Sponsorship

g. Michelle Machonachie, Fundraising

h. Marla Guppy, Art Zone

i. Ian Reid, Multimedia

j. Mark Emerton, Traffic Management

k. Greg McLeod, Sound

l. Dawn Hawkins

CARRIED

TA19.20 STAG Working Group Allocation 2019

HPERM Ref: D19/107786

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group appoint Workshop Members as follows:

1. Strategy and Planning Working Group

a. Project Lead:

b. Members:

2. Industry Development

a. Project Lead:

b. Members:

3. Product Development

a. Project Lead:

b. Members:

RESOLVED (David Goodman / David Fleeting)

That:

1. The report regarding the Shoalhaven Tourism Working Groups be deferred to the next meeting.

2. A workshop be held prior to the next meeting to discuss the STAG Strategic Plan and the purpose of the Working Groups.

CARRIED

GENERAL BUSINESS

TA19.22 Additional Item - Meeting Location - 2019 Meetings - Nowra

RESOLVED (David Goodman / Mat Lock)

That the remainder of the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group Meetings be held in the Nowra Administrative Building.

CARRIED

There being no further business, the meeting concluded, the time being 6.30pm.

CHAIRPERSON

Rob Crow

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 24 June 2019

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TA19.23 Tourism Manager's Report

HPERM Ref: D19/178015

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To give a brief outline of the Tourism Manager’s activity over April 2019 – May 2019

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:

· South Australian Visitor Information Centres - Annual State Conference – Adelaide 3^rd – 5^th June

· University of Wollongong – S4 Sun, Sand, Sea and Sustainability – Research Objectives internal workshop completed

· Review - Shoalhaven LEP 2014 - Clause 2.8 Temporary Use of Land - Stakeholder Engagement commencing soon. See more detail below.

· Drawing Room Rocks – Parking solutions

· Sydney Melbourne Touring - Strategic Plan 2019–2021 – reviewing draft document

· Shoalhaven 360 – Phase 1 audit has commenced, phase 2 implementation in progress

· Attendance at the Business & Employment Development Committee meeting

· Tourism Team – Region Visits

· Meeting with Sussex Inlet Chamber of Business and Tourism

· Tourism Operator Survey is due to occur again, the last survey was conducted in 2017. Information will go out to operators with associated survey soon.

· Ongoing Council operational matters, DPOP, budget and more.

Update on the Shoalhaven LEP 2014 - Clause 2.8 Temporary Use of Land

Strategic Planning provided a report to Council in regard to some operational challenges and increased community concerns around clause 2.8 in the LEP. The clause allows temporary use of land, often accessed for events, in areas that the land zoning would otherwise not allow the activity.

MIN19.285 resolved that Council:

1. Proceed to review the operation and effect of the current Clause 2.8 (Temporary use of land) in Shoalhaven Local Environmental Plan 2014.

2. Advise relevant stakeholders (all CCBs, Development/Tourism Industry, Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group) of this decision and engage them during the Review.

3. Receive a further report outlining the findings of the Review and options to revise the clause as appropriate.

The ‘Temporary use of land’ clause can be used for all sorts of things, however, a good example of from a tourism perspective is when an event is allowed to occur on privately owned and rural zoned land. Without clause 2.8, this type of activity would not be able to occur. There are currently limits in place on the way in which a DA for the temporary land use can be issued, including the number of times this can occur in a calendar year. It is planned that the review will look into current land uses, current restrictions, issues raised from community and feedback from the industry before making a recommendation to Council on next steps. Several of our businesses, including wineries and accommodation venues, are on rural zoned land and could be impacted by amendments to this clause. Further updates will be provided as the review progresses.

It’s important to note that any potential changes on land use could have a significant impact on some tourism business sectors and its important the business industry actively engage with this review.

Hyams Beach update

· Recruitment has concluded for Tourism Project Officer while Sharon Neradil is on leave. Lorraine Hayward and Emelie Einarsson (Casual Tourism Project Officer) commenced in the role on 15 April 2019 and were onsite over the Easter period to observe implementation of short term management strategies and consult with residents, staff and contractors.

· Council’s Traffic Management Plan was implemented over Easter peak period with positive feedback from residents and business.

· Consultation with Hyams Beach Villagers Association and local businesses was undertaken over Easter peak period and is ongoing.

· Longer term actions from Council’s resolution of 26 March 2019 are progressing, including exploring options for an out-of-area carpark, investigating a permanent roundabout and paid parking and progressing an Expression of Interest to identify potential Smart Technology Solutions available to assist to manage the challenges at Hyams Beach during peak visitor periods.

· Outcomes of the grant application for infrastructure upgrades under the Restart NSW Environment and Tourism fund are expected to be announced in early July. The Hyams Beach component of this grant application is $1.3 million.

· A report is expected to go to the Strategy and Assets Committee of Council in July to provide Council with a formal update.

Up next:

· Regional forum invitation with Destination Network Sydney Surrounds South.

· Ongoing partnership with Wollongong Uni.

· Development of the Shoalhaven 360 - Phase 2.

· Hyams Beach continues to be a focus leading into October and summer.

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 24 June 2019

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TA19.24 Destination Marketing

HPERM Ref: D19/174544

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Tourism

Attachments: 1. Media Clipping - Recipes from Shoalhaven - EatWell Magazine July (under separate cover) ⇨

2. Media Clipping - Australian Traveller - Shoalhaven - Unspoilt - Special 100 Edition (under separate cover) ⇨

3. Media Clipping - Australian Traveller - Huskisson Paperbark Camp - Special 100 Edition (under separate cover) ⇨

4. Media Clipping - Wellbing Magazine - back cover and Tip on May edition (under separate cover) ⇨

5. Advertising - back cover - Nourish Magazine - Shoalhaven Foodie - Volume 7 (under separate cover) ⇨

6. Media Clipping - Reconnect at Back 2 Earth Vegan Farm Stay - Volume 8 (under separate cover) ⇨

7. Media Clipping - Country Style Feature with South on Albany Country Chef - 6 page feature - June 2019 (under separate cover) ⇨

Purpose / Summary

To provide a summary of Destination Marketing activity for April – May 2019

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

Industry News

Tourism After Hours:
After last year’s successful Tourism After Hours events, we are holding another get-together in July and would like as many STAG members to attend as possible. The event will be held on 22 July from 4-6pm at the Shoalhaven Entertainment and Visitor Centre. This special event will include a presentation from Destination NSW marketing staff on the unspoilt campaign. STAG members will have the chance to network with tourism operators, Destination NSW and Destination Sydney Surrounds South (DSSS) staff members, so it is a valuable opportunity for all. Please RSVP to tourismmarketing@shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au

Award Submissions:
The Regional Tourism Awards Gala event for Destination Sydney Surrounds South and Southern NSW Destination Network’s is in Goulburn on 24 July. Some representatives from the Tourism office will likely be attending and if any STAG members would like to attend, please let us know as soon as possible. The marketing team is working with the Visitor Centre team on an application for the NSW Tourism Awards which close in July. After a win last year, marketing will have a break from submitting an entry and instead support the VIS team with their application.

New Product:
Pearla Kombi – Lake Tabourie – mobile coffee and vegan sweets
Peach Café in Milton – Coffee and café next to Pilgrims in Milton
Jervis Bay Brewing Co – Local beer, distributed on tap, brewery soon to open in Woollamia

Island Sushi – Located at Sussex Inlet Surf Club, serving fresh poke sushi bowls
Cupitt Sunset Winery Tour – bookable online, late afternoon winery and brewery tours
Bay and Bush Retreat – multiple cottages, updated Jervis Bay Holiday Cabins, Woollamia
50+ new Art and Culture product on ATDW for the Art and Culture Guide.

Publicity

Significant Publicity / Media Articles

Publication	Reach	Links / Update
Country Style (online)	663K	Things to see and do in Milton NSW (social and online) https://www.homestolove.com.au/milton-nsw-attractions-12581?fbclid=IwAR14bpJlhgg8iD-igzXZdmGcdQqcT18jB6gaSlKr5IImQr862cJZtiCvwpc
Country Style (print)	260K	30^th Birthday Edition – May. Inclusion of John from South on Albany as a foodie collaborator. https://www.instagram.com/p/BxtZ2cyAKqo/
The Australian	300K	Cliff House - Real estate agent catches the Mollymook bug https://www.theaustralian.com.au/business/property/real-estate-agent-catches-the-mollymook-bug/news-story/bf42e10cac86b76d42bd7744e505114d /
7Mate	200K	Live broadcast of the Goldbuckle Championships at Willinga Park https://www.freeview.com.au/watch-tv/shows/997f3ee3-215b-4054-8575-0c2c9c2aea60
Arts Hub	5,960	Experience The Wonder Of Shoalhaven’s Cultural Offerings With Eight Arts & Culture Trails https://visual.artshub.com.au/news-article/news/visual-arts/visual-arts-writer/icymi-rounding-up-the-weeks-arts-news-257808
E global travel media	4,400	Experience The Wonder Of Shoalhaven’s Cultural Offerings With Eight Arts & Culture Trails http://www.eglobaltravelmedia.com.au/experience-the-wonder-of-shoalhavens-cultural-offerings-with-eight-arts-culture-trails/
The Holiday and Travel Magazine	1,000	Experience The Wonder Of Shoalhaven’s Cultural Offerings With Eight Arts & Culture Trails https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/2019/04/experience-wonder-of-shoalhavens.html
CNN online	2M	Bangalay Luxury Villas - Six quirky NSW South Coast stays you need to book https://us.cnn.com/2019/05/15/cnn-underscored/best-hotel-restaurants/index.html
News.com.au	5.7M	Paperbark Camp 20^th anniversary https://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/whats-on-get-a-free-ride-on-luna-parks-new-flying-swinger/news-story/0ee4fb41646d2f644b926f0f07c09f9f
ABC 7:30pm	610K	Wisdom Wombat rescue in Kangaroo Valley feature https://www.abc.net.au/7.30/a-wisdom-of-wombats/11133646?fbclid=IwAR1Ti99H1woutQRVsN l2JW5MxSxAvPM2GPNDN86u2veIMTUuMl16hFBum3g
Sydney Weekender	200K	Show including 100 Beach Challenge Win and The Guild restaurant in Milton https://www.sydneyweekender.com.au/get-to-know-shoalhavens-100-beach-challenge-cafe-culture-nearby-winery-experiences/
Australian Traveller	90K	100 Edition - sponsored piece with Destination NSW for Unspoilt and a 3-page unpaid piece on Huskisson https://www.pressreader.com/australia/australiantraveller/20190501/282359746131826
Australian Traveller	90K	A perfect little weekend away on the NSW South Coast https://www.australiantraveller.com/nsw/south-coast/five-ways-to-eat-play-and-stay-on-nsws-south-coast/?fbclid=IwAR1HaO3eE0pvHWiVj78Flrkj5zVb-2JJ5hFO_bAcwx-cPuE08ARyFsiyjQo
John Rozentals	5.2Million	A Berry fine destination for a foodie escape Syndicated to 125 regional papers across NSW and beyond EG: https://www.transcontinental.com.au/story/6179941/a-berry-fine-destination-for-a-foodie-escape/
Sitchu blog	409K	Design piece on Bangalay Villas https://www.sitchu.com.au/sydney/living/home-design/bangalay-villas-shoalhaven-heads/2/

Influencer and Hot Spot report:


	https://www.instagram.com/p/Bwji4ltn96R/
	https://www.instagram.com/p/BxPQ4gRFyLR/
	https://www.instagram.com/p/BwCAp1TFsOL/
	https://www.instagram.com/p/BvgbxFklv09/
	https://www.instagram.com/p/Bvba4ktBLDl/

Unspoilt Campaign Update
The Unspoilt Campaign has been live since late April driving demand and leads to industry for off-season visitation. Shoalhaven put a considerable proportion of budget into outdoor advertising and publicity this year, with the rest going into a group digital media buy. Throughout May and June, large format digital billboards are in Sydney across four locations focussing on the North and West. Further advertising is also live in ‘Xtrack rail’ placements with video in metropolitan train station as well as a buyout of street furniture across bus stops and offices in Canberra and ACT (see images below).

A new partnership with Australian Traveller Magazine integrating booking.com, including an email newsletter to 62,000 subscribers went live in late May. Another partnership is also live with The Guardian, including a number of articles with locals being interviewed on couples and family weekends away. Publicity famils are starting to come through for publishing in July and August, with a group food and wine famil, and a visit to Jervis Bay from Her Canberra confirmed.

The first component of the digital campaign that went live in late April was video across several online sites. The function of the video is to build digital audiences for the social, native and digital display campaigns to come. The latter part of the campaign will be driving conversions to the South Coast and Shoalhaven landing pages on visitnsw.com from external media and social sites, with our main target being leads to industry. As mentioned above, Destination NSW staff are coming to present to STAG and operators on 22 July, please RSVP at your soonest convenience.

2019 Campaign Pages, please click to view:
Inland Touring – small villages and country town experiences
Surfing, SUP and Beaches
Whale and Wildlife experiences (new to this year’s campaign)
Adventure – bushwalking, rock climbing, kayaking etc
Food and Wine – restaurants, cafes, wineries, foodie experiences
Tourism Research Australia Results, December 2018

From a top line perspective, both total visitors and visitor nights are up in the latest survey from Tourism Research Australia. Total nights are at a new all-time-record of 5.41million, 5.8% up year on year. Domestic overnight visitors have grown 7.2%, with most growth in the off-season (April – Oct). One of the stand-out findings is the ongoing stability and growth of domestic overnight visitors and total visitor nights to the Shoalhaven. Both visitors and nights started trending upwards three years ago and have stayed consistently high, therefore proving more than just an upward anomaly. Stability ranks very high on the scale when it comes to a sustainable tourism industry.

Many regional areas are seeing a downturn in the number of nights spent in region, with short trips being prevalent to regional NSW from major cities, and longer trips being spent overseas. However, the Shoalhaven is seeing an average of 3.2 nights spent which contributes to a total annual visitor spend of approximately $853milion.

Looking back over the 2015 – 2018 surveys, we can clearly see that seasonality is reducing throughout the year. This was a big picture goal for the team, with both events and marketing stimulating demand for off-season visitation since 2015. See image below.

Back in 2015, the summer quarter made up almost half of all annual visitors (43%). As of December 2018, the off-season has now risen to around 70% of all visitation, showing a more even distribution of visitors throughout the year, signalling a stronger year-round economy for local jobs and growth. The ship has slowly turned by building brand appeal for Shoalhaven’s cooler season activities and converting these ideas into campaigns to drive actual visitation.

Google Partnership

We have commenced an ongoing partnership with google across business and maps. Shoalhaven City Council (Tourism Marketing Team) is now a ‘Trusted Verifier’ for google business listings, which means we can contact businesses directly and verify their listing with a pin code. In the past, to be verified, customers need to contact google to have a postcard to be sent with a code, which can take weeks.

Many businesses haven’t claimed their listing and are missing out on moderating their reviews and being in front of the millions of customers who use google maps.

To administrate this partnership and generate databases of ‘unclaimed listings’ we engaged an intern from Wollongong University. This assistance has allowed us to kick off the project and start outreach to businesses by phone and email. One of the biggest benefits of this partnership is direct access to the ‘Google Street View’ team. The Street View team can fix mapping errors on request and facilitate the hire of Google Trekker and other 360 video mapping products. The long-term goal is to get to know the Google Travel team and see where we can partner on innovative trials or new google products.

Art and Culture Campaign Update
The Art and Culture campaign has been building successfully since the launch in April. Of the 15,000 brochures printed in our first run, many have been distributed to local businesses and through the Visitor Centres, along with 5,000 being distributed in cafes and art venues in Sydney and Canberra throughout May. Because of the campaign and product development by the team, we now have over 80 art and culture products listed on the Shoalhaven website, more than double the amount we had online a year ago. Many of these businesses had never engaged with tourism audiences before.

Working with Sydney Art Publicist has been incredibly successful, with several journalist visits and media interest, resulting in 129 pieces of coverage secured so far, with a combined circulation reach of 5,852,087. One journalist for Fairfax Regional, John Rozentals has written one of three articles syndicated widely across 125 publications nationally. A press pack will be made to promote further in our own backyard to local media, encouraging locals to explore and support the art community.

The digital marketing campaign is live on social media and search engines, with a call to action to download the guide or ask for a copy to be mailed at our landing page shoalhaven.com/art-culture. An example of the social media ad carousel is below. These ads are enabling us to do some work building new audiences, developing targets in Sydney, Canberra and Regional NSW amongst art lovers.

Surfing Partnership Update

A content partnership with Surfing World and Coastal watch is rolling out over May and June. The team pitched a fun concept to drive visitors to the Shoalhaven with three videos to reach their loyal surf markets. The video is targeted to couples and families with young children, driving leads back to the shoalhaven.com/surf landing page for downloads of our brochure. This follows on from our successful 2016 campaign with ambassador, Tyler Wright.

Three videos are being produced by Surfing World, and then distributed on a Facebook network of over 500,000 along with Instagram and web placements, in addition advertising budget will boost these views. (Coastal Watch 96K followers, Surfing World 345K followers, Visit Shoalhaven 48K followers).

Our partners are well respected by the local surf community, so adhered to and assisted us with sensitivities around surf promotion with locals. Surfing World has been engaged to liaise with the locals and to deliver a campaign that only promotes the places surfers are happy to share.

Video 1. Couples video. Tongue in cheek, Tom gets himself out of trouble by organising a weekend away for his girlfriend Jessie’s birthday… somewhere that he can also enjoy a surf!
Results: Week 1 (Coastal Watch) 40,000 reach and 5.2K views. Yet to be posted on Surfing World page. WATCH HERE.
Video 2: June 6 – Young family travelling to the Shoalhaven to disconnect their young one from video games and have fun IRL (in real life). Results TBC
Video 3: June 20 – Local and surf expert Brett Burcher gives local tips on the best places to surf and enjoy living like a local. Results TBC

‘Foodie Goodness’ Campaign Update

Food and wine is a key promotional pillar for our off-season marketing, and this winter we focussed on ‘Foodie goodness’ – a wellness-based foodie ethos. In October last year we created the ‘Producer Guide’ in partnership with Slow Food South Coast which is a great focal point for this campaign.

This guide has been extremely popular, and we have already reprinted another 10,000. Along with introducing people to farm gates, providores and makers of fresh food, we wanted to introduce elements of our food and wine industry that are lesser known, to open us up to new affluent markets. Some of the elements promoted are: vegan and vegetarian restaurants, farmers markets, foodie experiences, farm stays and paddock to plate restaurants. Our target market for this campaign is cashed up Millennials (20 – 35yr olds) and Generation X (35 – 50-year olds) with young kids.

We partnered with Lovatt’s Media (Audrey Daybook, Breathe and Nourish) as well as Wellbeing and EatWell Magazines. All have a similar focus and ethics to our campaign essence and are rolling out activity from May – August (see below).

Publication	Description	Activity
Audrey Daybook	A smart and sophisticated new periodical for women	· Editorial – Farm gates, Cultural and Picking experiences · Advertising - back cover x 1 July · Social media posts with content
Nourish Magazine	Australia's premium vegan food & living magazine	· Editorial – Vegan and Vegetarian Trail · Advertising - back cover x 2 June + July · Social media posts with content
Breathe Magazine	Breathe Magazine Australia’s message is to ‘make more time for yourself’	· Editorial – Back2Earth Vegan Farm stay · Editorial – Vegan and Vegetarian Trail · Advertising Back cover · Social media posts with content · Advertising - back cover x 2 June + July
BONUS:	Mindful Parenting – NEW slow down, take a moment to yourself, and explore who you are – in and outside of being a parent.	· Free full-page ad in first edition. Part of Lovatts Media as is Breathe, Audrey, and Nourish)
EatWell	The only recipe magazine in Australia that offers a healthy approach to good food.	· Insert 7000 Producer Guides in July · Double page with sponsored recipes from locals July · Full page ad July
Wellbeing	Australia's leading natural health magazine that focuses on organic living, alternative therapies, environmental issues	· Social media video series x 3 with producers and chefs – hosted by Lee from superchargedfood.com – August · Full page ad – Aug/Sep Online holistic Q+A wellbeing.com.au · 3 x Facebook posts · 1 X Targeted EDM

Visitor Guide Update

The 2019 Visitor Guide has been well-received once again, with a large proportion being distributed in region to Visitor Centres and operators. Many are also being sent direct to our target markets, with 12,000 copies tipped onto (stuck onto the back of) the May edition of Wellbeing Magazine copies for NSW and. This tip-on helps us to build audience in the ‘conscious traveller’ (responsible, sustainable) and wellness sectors. A further 15,000 guides were delivered into cafes and arts venues in Sydney (12,000) and Canberra (3,000) throughout April and May. We are now turning our attention to next year’s guide, with the 2020 Advertising Media Kit now available for booking.

International Marketing Update

The final tender document has been received from the Targeted Tender which followed on from the EOI to test the market. Further information and a decision will be presented in the next report.

Digital Marketing Report

Paid Digital Advertising:

Google Search and Remarketing campaigns are driving people to our website and make up around 4% of all website traffic. Paid advertising is important to entice a new audience to our website. Total clicks for April and May were around 3,000 with impressions (which do not cost anything) at 240,000.

Paid campaigns across Facebook and Instagram platforms are serving ads for Art and Culture, as well as 100 Beach Challenge and the Visitor Guide Download. As we come into winter, Surfing and Foodie Goodness will come into the fore. We are splitting budget several ways but gained 408 as full conversions to download a brochure. 4590 clicks were made through to our landing pages and around 90,000 impressions to new audiences, which is all important campaign traffic.

Website update:

Website users for the same period (April, May) last year are up 68% showing a high increase in traffic (annual growth goals are 20%). 70% of this traffic is coming from organic search, showing brand awareness is building and customers are searching specifically for content on our site and our SEO (search engine optimisation) tactics are paying off. Approximately 11% of this traffic comes from our social media, and the top referrer is visitnsw.com, followed by well-known blogs such as the urban list and concrete playground.

Top 5 visited pages | shoalhaven.com
1. Honeymoon Bay (monitoring issues as a hot spot)
2. Homepage
3. What’s on this weekend
4. Visitor Guide
5. Events

Top line stats | shoalhaven.com l year-on-year

Top 5 products used in Shoalhaven.com itinerary builder
Honeymoon Bay
Ritual Habitual
Hyper Hyper Coffee
Tallwood Eatery
Marlin Hotel

Digital Marketing Overview:

Facebook Update:
Our top posts (organic reach, not paid) from April and May are a combination of links, videos and photos, showing that utilising different content types keep our followers engaged. It also shows the popularity of a wide mix of our promotional pillars, from coastal and aquatic, to food and wine, to adventure, to nature and wildlife. An increase in engagement and followers shows a strong overall presence. Click on the links to view:
1. Video from the top of Pigeon House Mountain
2. Beautiful aerial picture of Snake Bay
3. Australia’s five black Cockatoos
4. Album on Sussex Inlet
5. Shoalhaven Stories – Stefano from The Guild, Milton

Apr – May Facebook	2018	2019	Change
Followers	45456	52351	17%
New Followers	370	728	96%
Engagement	17842	31298	75%

Instagram Update:

Our top posts (organic reach, not paid) from April and May are all videos on Instagram. This audience likes new, unique and stunning experiences, from a visual point of view. We continue to curate a wide range of experiences but visually stunning with a twist of quirky or adventure is always a winner for the younger audiences on Instagram.

Apr – May Instagram	2018	2019	Change
Followers	10436	14,800	41%
Video engagement	5484	12507	128%
Engagement	18934	28414	50%

1. Kangaroo Valley sunset kayaking video 2,400
2. Shultz Café and Nursery – Shoalhaven Stories 1,964
3. Cliffnic video experiences with Outdoor raw 1,700
4. Swimming with seals, Dive Jervis Bay experience 1,200
5. Kangaroo Valley video at Manning lookout 1,088

Visitor Email Newsletter:

Our monthly Visitor email has around 5,000 subscribers and a 30% open rate, which is high for the industry (around 15-20% benchmark). The most popular content over the last few months has been:

1. Whale Watching in the Shoalhaven
2. Savour the Shoalhaven - Paddock to Plate
3. Winter specials at Bannisters

We want to continue building this list with some new campaigns to drive more subscribers to supplement the emails we receive from our opt-in button when people download our guides.

Tourism Talk Newsletter:
The April and May editions of the Tourism Talk Newsletter were bumper additions with over 10 articles in each. Operators engage with the newsletter, getting around a 30% open rate, although we would like to see a slightly more from a Business to Business (B2B) audience. We will be working on a B2B website going live later this year, so that the content for Tourism Talk will go live as it is relevant, and operators can check in at any time. We will also have handy templates and advice for marketing as well as Event Support Program information.

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 24 June 2019

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TA19.25 Events and Investment

HPERM Ref: D19/174579

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Tourism

Attachments: 1. Grant Writing - Myth Busting - Presentation - May 2019 (under separate cover) ⇨

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.

In Progress

· Updated Event Support Program Funding implementation – updating forms and website information has commenced.

· Awaiting results from the application to the Environment and Tourism Fund for Shoalhaven Sustainable Tourism Infrastructure Package, a $6.8 million-dollar tourism infrastructure project. An announcement is expected late July.

· Full review of Event Policy as well as associated support material and templates, including best practice sustainable initiatives e.g. no single use plastics. Updated Event Policy due for completion by 30 June ready for the public notification period.

· 2019 / 2020 event planning in partnership with Shoalhaven Water for supported sports events. Specifically looking for opportunities to activate the Bomaderry Sporting Complex with large events.

· Destination Network Sydney Surrounds South recently ran a workshop to assist event organisers write successful grant applications. There was a good representation from Shoalhaven event organisers. Please find notes from the Workshop attached.

· The next round of DNSW event funding is due to open in July, currently working with event organisers to prepare applications.

· The Asia Pacific Incentives Meetings Event (AIME) is an annual event held in Melbourne in February. It is the leading trade event for the meetings and event industry from the Asia Pacific region. DNSW has a program to partner with regions and operators to assist with attending the event. We are currently working with potential operators to submit an EOI to DNSW for a combined Shoalhaven space at AIME 2020.

· DNSW’s Regional Conferencing unit has funding available through their Regional Business Development Fund, we are currently working with several operators to potentially source funding. For more information on opportunities visit https://www.meetinnsw.com.au/business-event-development-fund.

· Reviewing three applications for funding under the Event Support Program.

· Working with several Shoalhaven operators on plans for new or upgraded infrastructure, providing advice, statistics and links to industry representatives. Will report on specifics when information is publicly available.

· Council recently resolved to approve the Development Application for the relocation of the former church in Huskisson – details below.

· Liaising with event organisers who are proposing to use public land for events. As well as assessing and permitting events on public land and assessing and issuing filming permits.

Event Applications currently being assessed:

· RFS Volunteers Day – Nowra Showground, Nowra – 16^th June 2019

· NAIDOC Day – Nowra Showground, Nowra – 10^th July 2019

· Ngulla NAIDOC Festival – Ulladulla Civic Centre, Ulladulla – 12^th July 2019

· Aussie Night Markets – Nowra Showground, Nowra – 12^th & 13^th July 2019

· Berry Duathlon – Berry Showground, Berry – 27^th July 2019

· Men’s Shed Market Day – Shoalhaven Heads – 18^th August 2019

· NSW State Show – Nowra Showground, Nowra – 24^th August 2019

Other Event Enquiries and/or Meetings

· Viking Festival 2020 – Sussex Inlet

· Game Fishing Tournament 2020 – Huskisson

Filming Applications assessed, and permits given – April - June

· Taboo – 7 Mile Beach, Shoalhaven heads & McMahons Rd North Nowra - 4th April 2019

· Yes Agency Optus Shoot – Kangaroo Valley – 10th May 2019

· Baku Swimwear Shoot – Callala Beach & Vincentia – 28th to 30th May 2019

Filming Applications currently being assessed:

· Yes Agency Optus – Currarong Beach – 11^th June 2019

Upcoming Supported Events:

Event Name	Date of the Event	Venue/Location	Economic Benefit
May
Arts in the Valley	3 – 5 May	Kangaroo Valley	$611,000
Big Country	11 May	Berry	$1,953,000
Burradise / Surf Bash	10 – 12 May	Culburra Beach	$1,268,000
Masters Swim - Ulladulla	10 – 11 May	Ulladulla	$124,000
National Motoring Heritage Day	17 May	Berry	$201,000
Shoalhaven Pro Junior	25 – 27 May	Culburra Beach	$425,000
June
SeeChange Festival	1 – 10 June	Bay and Basin	$1,150,000
StoryFest	21 – 23 June	Ulladulla	$261,000
July
AFL Junior Championships	4 – 7 July	Nowra	$158,000
Chilli Chocolate Festival	28 July	Nowra	$344,000
August
Wedding Fair	3 – 4 August	Various Locations	$179,000
South Coast Soul Festival	23 – 25 August	Bewong	$328,000
September
South Coast Food and Wine	13 – 15 September	Berry	$3,346,000

For a full list of Shoalhaven events visit https://www.shoalhaven.com/events

Results

Event Permits Issued – April - June

· Milton Ulladulla Dog Training Club Agility Event – Bill Andriske Oval, Mollymook - 6th & 7th April 2019

· Mollymook Surf Club Ocean Swim – Mollymook Beach, Mollymook – 13th April 2019

· Sussex Inlet RSL Easter Egg Hunt – Ellmoos Reserve, Sussex Inlet – 14th April 2019

· White Sands Easter Carnival – Huskisson Sportsfield, Huskisson – 20th April 2019

· Blessing of the Fleet – Ulladulla foreshore, Ulladulla – 21st April 2019

· Anzac Day Services – Shoalhaven – 25th April 2019

· Tour de Cure Signature Cure – Osbourne Park (KV Showground), Kangaroo Valley – 4th May 2019

· Royal Australian Navy Family Concert - Osbourne Park (KV Showground), Kangaroo Valley – 5th May 2019

· School Steer Spectacular – Nowra Showground, Nowra – 6th to 9th May 2019

· Big Country Music Festival – Berry Showground, Berry – 11th May 2019

· Burradise Festival 2019 – Culburra – 10th to 12th May 2019

· Huskisson Mother’s Day Classic – Voyager Park, Huskisson – 12th May 2019

· Culburra Surf Bash – Warrain Beach, Culburra – 18th May 2019

· Sussex Inlet RSL Fireworks – Ellmoos Reserve, Sussex Inlet – 18th May 2019

· Sorry Day Reconciliation Walk – Moorhouse Park, Nowra – 24th May 2019

· Shoalhaven Pro Junior Surfing – Seven Mile Beach, Shoalhaven Heads – 24th to 26th May 2019

· Berry Celtic Festival – Berry Showground, Berry – 25th May 2019

· SeeChange Festival – White Sands Park, Huskisson – 1st to 11th June 2019

· Rally of the Bay – Shallow Crossing, State Forest (Shoalhaven) – 29th June 2019

Supported Event Results

Current economic impact based on event REMPLAN reports for secured 2018/19 events is $22,169,500

Arts in the Valley – Kangaroo Valley

· Attendance

Total number attendees at concerts was approx. 1155. This is an increase on previous years, largely accounted for by the free RAN Band concert. Attendances at Sculpture events were well over 2000 people (final numbers are yet to be confirmed).

Big Country – Berry

· Attendance

6,358 people attended Big Country. A post-event survey gathered feedback and demographic information from Big Country attendees. These results found that 20% of patrons stayed one night in the Shoalhaven area, 26% stayed two nights and 5% stayed three or more nights. This equates to a total of 4,785 overnight stays in the region. 94.77% of patrons came to Berry specifically for Big Country. 20% of patrons travelled between 1-2 hours to visit the area, 21% travelled between 2-4 hours and 11.5% travelled over 4 hours to attend.

The Big Country Facebook page reached over 1,002,000 people throughout the campaign (over 352,000 organic reach).

Facebook page likes: 3,749

Instagram followers: 1,144

Facebook event responses: 14,239

“The inaugural Big Country exceeded expectations following an overwhelming response to the festival’s launch. With support from Shoalhaven Tourism, we were able to boost visitation significantly during an off-peak period and activate the town of Berry, providing a fantastic experience for locals and travellers alike.

Pink Salt Productions are already looking forward to uncovering what the future holds for the festival.” Jack Steward, Festival Director

Burradise / Surf Bash – Culburra Beach

· Attendance

Early indications show a decrease on 2018 with an estimated 5,000 attending over the two-day event. Final numbers and out of regional statistics for both events are currently being collated with accommodation partners. The drop in numbers is a direct result in a DNSW Flagship funding application being unsuccessful, which meant a drop in marketing spend by $20,000.

Masters Swimming – Ulladulla

· Attendance

Over 80 competitors and their families visited Ulladulla for the Masters Swimming event held at Ulladulla Leisure Centre. Information on the region, including what to see and do was provided to participants travelling from outside the area, organisers report that many competitors made the decision to extend their stay in the Shoalhaven.

National Motoring Heritage Day – Berry

· Attendance

600 cars and just over 1,000 people attended the National Motoring Heritage Day.

The Club has also received feedback from many of the business owners in Berry who appreciated the additional business that the event generated.

Hydrolyte Sports Shoalhaven Pro Junior – Various Locations

· Full report including final competitor and spectator numbers yet to be provided. Unfortunately, conditions at Culburra Beach were not favourable, competitors moved to Shoalhaven Heads for part of the competition to capture the best conditions.

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 24 June 2019

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TA19.26 Visitor Services Update April 2019

HPERM Ref: D19/185489

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Tourism

Purpose / Summary

To give an update of Visitor Information Services for April 2019.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

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

1. Receive the report for information

2. Request more information

Visitor Centres

With the good weather and Easter being later this year, the shoulder season was extended to the end of April. Many operators anecdotally reported excellent bookings over the school holidays with Anzac Day and Easter combining with the school holidays resulting in one of the best Easter holiday seasons experienced for some time.

Famils

Main Road 92

The VIS team always likes to be current with directions and stop overs we refer people to through the Visitor Centre. Main Road 92 has become a main thoroughfare for travellers and caravaners towing large rigs that don’t want to go through Kangaroo Valley or Clyde Mountain. We investigated the road access to popular places like Tianjara Fall and Jerrawangala Lookout as well as popular climbing destinations and overnight stops, including Nerriga Pub. It was great to sit down with the owners of the pub to discuss how they feel the area is changing with the increased traffic to the Shoalhaven.

Sussex Inlet

In the last few months the VIS team have actively tried to visit areas that do not receive as many customer enquiries through our office. It is the intention of staff to build relationships and personal product knowledge. Famils in April and May where throughout the Sussex Inlet, Cudmirrah and the Berrara area. Staff noted some new businesses popping up, such as Island Sushi, and spent time re-visiting accommodation places after recent renovations like The Cove (formally Bay of Plenty Lodges). It has been particularly beneficial for staff to be reminded and see firsthand what these wonderful places have to offer. Outdoor recreation possibilities are huge at Swan Lake, Sussex Inlet River and Berrara Creek. This local knowledge helps to better inform visitors and aids in dispersal of visitors in peak times.

Mobile Services

Mobile Services were set up over the Easter period with volunteers at Sussex Inlet and Vincentia. Vincentia reported a quiet time, with few inquiries. With the good weather, many were at the beach. Sussex had a successful period, with many inquiries. The inquiries were mainly local in nature, asking what to do in the area. It was interesting that many of the inquiries were from first timers to Sussex Inlet.

FINANCIALS

The table below shows income for April 2019, broken down into business units and compared to last year’s results.

NOWRA INCOME

Description	April 2019	April 2018	*Variance*	YOY +/-**
Souvenirs	$1,211	$876	+$355	-15%
Books/Maps	$1,175	$1,057	+$118	-3%
Local Product	$1,036	$1,076	-$40	-1%
Total	$3,422	$3,009	*+$413*	-5%

**YOY +/- shows the % difference between the total income for the 12-month period prior vs the same period last year – Year on Year. This is useful to reflect impacts of seasonality.

Comments:

General souvenirs sales at Nowra VIC are showing a decline, as visitors are looking for more locally made products.

INCOME ULLADULLA

Description	April 2019	April 2018	*Variance*	*YOY +/-***
Souvenirs	$947	$893	+54	-2%
Books/Maps	$663	$568	+95	+18%
Local Product	$1,371	$1,414	-43	+2%
Total	$10,701	$9,513	*+106*	*+3%*

**YOY +/- shows the % difference between the total income for the 12-month period prior vs the same period last year – Year on Year. This is useful to reflect impacts of seasonality.

Comments:

Ulladulla has maintained constant merchandise sales throughout the year, with local products being well received.

ENQUIRIES - NOWRA

Description	April 2019 Total Number	April 2018 Total Number	Variation Total Number	YOY +/-**
Counter	2600	1972	+628	+15%
Emails	525	628	-103	+8%
Phone	871	794	+77	-6%
Volunteer	58	28	+30	-4%
Total	4054	3394	+660	+7%

**YOY +/- shows the % difference between the total number of enquiries for the 12-month period prior vs the same period last year – Year on Year. This is useful to reflect impacts of seasonality.

Comments:

Counter inquiries are showing an increase YOY, with more visitor inquiries coming from an extended shoulder season.

33,000 inquiries have been handled by Visitor Services to end of April 2019. Additionally, VIS staff sold 10,880 tickets for the Entertainment Centre at the counter YTD.

E NQUIRIES - ULLADULLA

Description	April 2019 Total Number	April 2018 Total Number	Variation Total Number	YOY +/-**
Counter	1549	1648	-99	-2%
Emails	1	8	-7	-2%
Phone	460	584	-124	-20%
Volunteer	8	0	+8
Total	2019	2240	-221	-7%

**YOY +/- shows the % difference between the total number of enquiries for the 12-month period prior vs the same period last year – Year on Year. This is useful to reflect impacts of seasonality.

Comments:

Ulladulla VIS has handled over 21,000 enquiries to end of April 2019, this is tracked manually with a counter and gives us a good indication of enquiries. Phone inquiries have decreased as more tourists access their mobile phones for information. Counter inquiries have been maintained throughout the year, with an increasing number from overseas.

Ulladulla had a one volunteer start in April, unfortunately she has now resigned for personal reasons. We are on the lookout for other volunteers for Ulladulla.

GOALS FOR BALANCE OF THE YEAR 2018/2019

· Continued volunteer recruitment

· Continued support of supplementary visitor centres

· Continuation of familiarisation visits

· Continue to source locally made products

Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group – Monday 24 June 2019

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TA19.27 River Festival Committee Update

HPERM Ref: D19/176997

Group: General Manager's Group

Section: Tourism

Attachments: 1. Terms of Reference - Shoalhaven River Festival Committee (under separate cover) ⇨

Purpose / Summary

To update the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group on the Shoalhaven River Festival.

Recommendation (Item to be determined under delegated authority)

That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

1. Receive the report for information.

2. Endorse the Shoalhaven River Festival Committee Terms of Reference (attached).

Options

1. That the Shoalhaven Tourism Advisory Group

a. Receive the report for information

b. Receive the Terms of Reference (attached) for information

2. Request further information

Deputy Chair’s Report

Planning is advancing for the Shoalhaven River Festival which is to be held on Saturday 26th October 2019.

The event will remain a free event (non- ticketed).

The committee has been formally established and approved by Council.

Budgets are currently being prepared for all areas.

Sponsorship is being sought from the commercial sector, “Shoalhaven Ex Servos” are again our major commercial sponsor, and any assistance or contacts in this regard would be greatly appreciated.

The committee is currently reviewing strategies for more effective donation collection on the day and leading up to the event.

Following a tender process:

The Markets are being co-ordinated by a third party, Eat Shop Love, as was done last year (by a different organisation).

The updated website and initial media management will be by Handmade Web.

Additional media management, including print, radio and TV will be negotiated approx 2 months out from the event, some initial discussion is underway.

Planning for Artzone, entertainment, river activities, evening and night time activities and associated events are advancing.

The committee is assessing the opportunities for associated events to occur at or around the Festival date, and indeed co-ordination with other activities within the Shoalhaven occurring on the same weekend e.g. The Sand and Sea Festival in Jervis Bay.

The committee is conscious that the proposed new Nowra bridge will impact future festivals, but we are assured by the RMS that there will be no disruption this year. A new DA for the event will need to be undertaken for the event.

We are grateful that Shoalhaven Council, Shoalhaven Water, Shoalhaven Tourism and STAG maintain support for the River Festival, we are keen that it exists on Destination NSW’s radar as well. We are also keen that as much exposure for our region is leveraged off the Shoalhaven River Festival and would welcome any input from STAG on this basis.

As we are close to finalising the structure of many aspects of the events and budget, we will be in a position with our next report to add a greater level of detail. We would also like to keep STAG informed, and interactive, between meetings, and would welcome input and advice as to how this may best happen.

Your support and input are greatly appreciated.

David Fleeting,

Deputy Chair, on Behalf of the Shoalhaven River Festival Committee.

Tourism continued involvement

· Terms of Reference have been finalised (see attached).

· Shoalhaven Tourism will continue to provide support as needed and the Event Liaison Officer will attend meetings and provide advice as required.

· The River Festival will be required to formally update STAG at each meeting via a report. Minutes of meetings and any relevant reports will be provided to Council as needed via STAG.

Financial Implications

Council have allocated $20,000 of funding in the draft budget for the 2019 event. If adopted, the current Terms of Reference gives delegated authority to the River Festival Committee on spend and financial management of funds.