When domestic travellers return next week, they will begin a spending spree worth $1.3billion to the Central NSW economy*, which is a huge boost for local businesses and will directly benefit the entire community.
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With a majority 35% of travellers Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR), it is the local hosts who will play a vital role in this transaction. Accommodation may be hosted but they will spend more in cafes, restaurants, attractions, shops, gifts and on local produce.
"Small business reinvests in the local economy at a higher rate than chains do, so I'm encouraging everyone to 'love local' and get out and spend wisely in our community," said Mayor Kevin Beatty.
"My top tips for showing the love to our local businesses is to take a trip and visit our Cabonne unique towns and villages, be tempted by boutique retail, enjoy the many cellar doors, take a picnic in our breathtaking landscapes, sample some local produce, visit the galleries and museums, as the Age of Fishes Museum in Canowindra is now open and welcoming visitors.
"There is certainly something there to enjoy for every visitor of any age and We Certainly Want You Back", said Cr Beatty.
An American Express Shop Small report in 2019 measured the 'Boomerang Dollar' which is the value of consumer spending within small businesses that flows back into the local community. Of each dollar spent with small businesses, 45 cents are reinvested back into the local community.
The other positive effects of supporting local businesses are the health benefits of local fresh seasonal produce, the environmental impact of low travel miles, and the social aspect of getting to know the locals.
In 2019 there were 2.8 million domestic overnight visitors who stayed 7.2 million nights in Central NSW and spent $1.3 billion. The majority of visitors to the region came for the purpose of Visiting Friends and Relatives and Holiday (35% each), followed by Business (21%).*
A new $30,000 tourism campaign 'We want you back' will be rolled out in June, a partnership between 10 LGA's (local government areas), Orange360 and the Central NSW Joint Organisation. It features Orange, Blayney, Cabonne, Cowra, Bathurst, Oberon, Forbes, Lachlan, Weddin and Parkes.
The campaign will feature 27 local tourism personalities sharing their stories on what they love about their region with tips on things to see, do and taste.
A survey is also being undertaken to evaluate local spend with Visiting Friends and Relatives. Please fill in the short questionnaire at: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NJSLMGF
