Port Stephens will host a major Rotary Conference in 2018, drawing up to 400 delegates and injecting more than $300,000 into the local economy.

The announcement was made in Dubbo where Rotary’s 2017 conference for District 9670, which covers one third of NSW from Port Stephens and Newcastle to Bourke and Cobar, was held.

The 2018 conference for District 9670 will be held in Nelson Bay, Port Stephens, from March 16-18, with the three-day event centred on the Wests Nelson Bay Club.

The conference is the premier event for Rotary members and offers participants the latest information on Rotary’s best practices, research and innovation and professional development opportunities as well as the ability to network with Rotary peers from across the district.

The incoming District Governor for Rotary District 9670, Helen Ryan from the Nelson Bay Rotary Club, said the 2018 event would bring up to 400 Rotarians from across the state to Port Stephens next March, with the event highlighting the natural beauty of the region.

“The objective of the conference is to bring all Rotarians together to be inspired and enthused and to engage in the Rotary family of fellowship and learning,” Helen said.

“It’s a golden opportunity for networking, meeting, discussing and expanding the work of Rotary and for Rotary to showcase itself to the Port Stephens community. While in Port Stephens, delegates will take local dolphin cruises, play golf and bowls and enjoy all the many activities the region offers.”

Destination Port Stephens Marketing Manager, Danny Eather said the 2018 conference would generate more than $300,000 in revenue for the region.

“Our natural scenery, fresh sea air, abundance of seafood and produce and huge range of activities provide the perfect arena for events like the Rotary Conference and we are working hard to attract more events like this to Port Stephens,” Danny said.

IMAGE | The Major Rotary Conference for 2018 will be held in Nelson Bay, Port Stephens.