The formation of a new Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Alliance Committee will aim to increase visitors and promotion of the region.
Representatives from Cessnock City and Singleton Councils and Hunter Valley Wine and Tourism Association (HVWTA) will form the new alliance committee.
At this stage all parties have supported the move ‘in principle’ with a further report to be brought back to both Cessnock City and Singleton Councils by December outlining the progress of the formation of the alliance.
Cessnock City Council General Manager Stephen Glen said the new committee would enable the three organisations to pool resources and work together.
“It’s about having no borders when it comes to promoting visitation and tourism in the Hunter Valley wine country,” Stephen said.
“It’s critical for stakeholders of Hunter Valley wine country to have one voice in order to grow the capacity of the destination and ensure sustainable, economic and industry growth.”
The tourism industry of Hunter Valley wine country is concentrated in both the Cessnock and Singleton local government areas.
Hunter Valley wine country received 1.5 million visitors last year. Direct visitor expenditure is estimated to be $295 million within the region.
The tourism industry is vital for providing important investment and employment opportunities in Singleton and Cessnock.
The alliance committee will move towards partnering on critical projects and achieving a common platform for booking accommodation, events and operations.
Its funding opportunities and planning will link in with the NSW Government’s Visitor Economy Taskforce Report and Action Plan.
This plan aims to double overnight visitor expenditure to NSW by 2020.