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NSW WELCOMES BACK OUR NEIGHBOURS IN TRUE SYDNEY STYLE
Passengers on the first Qantas flight from Melbourne, following the re-opening of the NSW-Victorian border this week, were surprised and delighted by a colourful Sydney-style welcome from big-haired drag queens and bronzed Bondi lifesavers to celebrate the momentous occasion.
Drag queens - Coco Jumbo and Penny Tration - and the lifesavers handed arriving passengers Nutie donuts - to symbolise zero cases - and Tobys Estate coffee cards as John Sebastian’s 1976 hit Welcome Back and Kool & The Gang’s Celebration blared out over the Sydney Airport PA.
The PR stunt, organised by Destination NSW, Qantas and Sydney Airport, received widespread national coverage on Sunrise, The Project, The Sydney Morning Herald, ABC Sydney News, Channel 10 and Channel 7 news bulletins.
This was followed on Tuesday with more good news that Queenslanders could travel anywhere in NSW from 1 December.
These two events marked a major milestone for the NSW visitor economy with its two biggest domestic markets once again able to travel freely to the state.
Quick to respond, Destination NSW commenced TV and digital advertising in Victoria the day of the border re-opening, with a media buy for Queensland locked in to entice our northern neighbours to hop the border for a Great Escape.
Qantas CEO Alan Joyce said it was positive to see the Sydney-Melbourne route – one of the busiest in the world – resume.
“We’re still a long way off having it back to full strength, but the sharp rebound in travel demand we’re seeing gives us a lot of confidence,” he said. “As borders continue to open, we’re expecting a boom in domestic travel.”
NSW EASES COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS, ELECTRONIC REGISTRATIONS NOW MANDATORY
The NSW Government next week will further ease restrictions, allowing more people to gather outdoors in a public space, in small hospitality venues, and at home.
The changes, which come into effect from 1 December, will provide a welcome boost to the hospitality sector, with small venues up to 200sqm in size allowed to accommodate one person per two square metres indoors.
The Sydney Business Chamber said the easing of these restrictions, combined with the new ‘Dine and Discover’ voucher program and widespread reform around live music and the night-time economy, would help position Sydney as the music and cultural capital of Australia.
“NSW has led the country on border reopenings and now Sydney has the opportunity to capitalise on this... allowing locals and domestic tourists to enjoy our many fabulous restaurants, entertainment and cultural venues,” said Sydney Business Chamber Executive Director Katherine O’Regan.
The NSW Tourism Industry Council said previous initiatives had allowed many businesses to continue operating and retain staff, with the new measures to help even further.
“With the warming summer weather and longer daylight times, what a great opportunity to visit our state’s attractions, museums, art galleries, dining outlets and entertainment venues that have been impacted by COVID-19 restrictions.
“It’s not only the traditional tourism and hospitality sector that will be supported but the thousands of goods and service providers that also comprise the visitor economy supply chain,” said the Council’s Executive Manager Greg Binskin.
From the same date, up to 50 people will be able to gather outdoors in a public space – similarly at home - as long as an outdoor space is being used.
From 23 November, restrictions on outdoor concerts eased allowing for up to 3,000 attendees adhering to the one person per two square metre guideline, if in an assigned seat.
In addition, hospitality and entertainment venues must now use electronic registration systems such as QR codes to record the names and contact details of patrons, or risk serious penalties.
Digital systems are contactless, safe to use and assist NSW Health contact tracers.
The NSW Government has created a QR code function through the Service NSW app to assist businesses and guests. For the latest information about NSW’s COVID-19 restrictions, go to www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19.
SYDNEY IN FOR A WILD RIDE WITH LUNA PARK MAKEOVER
Nine new rides will be built at Sydney’s Luna Park as part of a $30 million makeover of Sydney’s iconic amusement park.
The upgrade will be the biggest since the historic park opened in 1935 and will include six new children’s rides, a thrill ride, a family roller coaster and a brand-new Big Dipper.
The project is estimated to create more than 2,500 direct and indirect jobs during the construction and delivery stages.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said the upgrade would help boost local tourism and urged other tourism operators to follow suit.
“The investment will attract more people to Sydney and ensure that Luna Park continues providing joy and excitement to millions of families and children for the next 85 years and beyond,” Mr Ayres said.
“[The upgrade sends] an incredibly strong signal to the rest of the NSW tourism sector that now is the time to invest in your product.
“If you can’t operate at full speed, or at full capacity, take this opportunity to invest in your product so that when everything’s open again and visitors are coming back, you’ve got a great experience you can provide.”
Luna Park will close on 27 January, with most upgrades due to be completed by July 2021.
PIPPIN’S ‘GOT MAGIC TO DO’
The curtain has gone up on the Sydney-exclusive season of Pippin, the first large-scale musical to return to Australian stages since theatres closed in March due to COVID-19.
The Tony Award-winning production opened with its first preview performance on Tuesday night at the Sydney Lyric Theatre, where it will run until 31 January 2021.
Minister for Jobs, Investment, Tourism and Western Sydney Stuart Ayres said: “The opening of Pippin in Sydney is an exciting milestone as we celebrate the return of musicals and theatre productions for the first time since the start of the pandemic.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy a COVID-safe night out in Sydney – book a ticket to this spectacular show, enjoy dinner at your favourite restaurant and even stay a night at a hotel in the city. You’ll not only be treating yourself, but giving local businesses a boost.”
Producer John Frost said: “Everyone in this sensational cast and crew is thrilled to be back at work, bringing this exhilarating musical to life and opening up Sydney musical theatre again.
“Sydney is ready to celebrate and what better way than heading to the Sydney Lyric to enjoy this Tony Award-winning musical which has thrilled audiences across the globe.”
Tickets for Pippin are available here.
The Australian premiere of Pippin has been secured exclusively for Sydney by the NSW Government through Destination NSW.
NSW businesses, residents and visitors must comply the latest NSW Health advice, available at www.nsw.gov.au/covid-19. The Sydney Lyric Theatre will operate in accordance with its COVID Safety Plan. All theatregoers aged 12 years and over will be required to wear a mask in the foyers and throughout the performance.
MULTMILLION-DOLLAR PLANS TO TRANSFORM THE GUNNERY
The Gunnery at Woolloomooloo is set to be transformed as part of a $5 million plan to expand exhibition spaces, resident artist studios and improve the connection to the local neighbourhood and Sydney Harbour foreshore.
The transformation, which is part of the NSW Government’s pipeline of projects designed to revitalise the state’s arts and cultural venues, will kickstart NSW’s road to economic recovery by delivering a contemporary, more accessible centre for generations to come.
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said: “From a famed artist squat in the 70s and 80s, to the studio space, gallery and home to resident artist organisations in the early 90s, to the cultural landmark it is today, The Gunnery will be transformed once again to an exciting new cultural destination for the people of NSW.”
Alexie Glass-Kantor, Executive Director at Artspace, said the major investment in The Gunnery would ensure the legacy of the landmark building as the destination for visual arts in NSW.
“This timely support will see the transformation of Artspace in The Gunnery into a more agile and resilient 21st century centre for innovation in contemporary art through expanded exhibitions, enhanced spaces for learning and education, digital connectivity, commissioning and studio practice,” Ms Glass-Kantor said.
This project is supported through the NSW Government’s $120 million in the State Budget to improve the accessibility, sustainability and functionality of the state’s arts and cultural venues.
Image credit: Artspace
STAY AND PLAY IN SYDNEY’S BIGGEST BACKYARD
Western Sydney Parklands has unveiled a new tourism campaign encouraging visitors to explore the many attractions and exciting events in the Parklands this summer.
The Stay and Play campaign supports Western Sydney’s $2.4 billion visitor economy by enticing visitors back into the region after what has been a challenging year for tourism operators.
Greater Sydney Parklands Chief Executive, Suellen Fitzgerald, said: “We’re excited for Sydneysiders and our regional visitors to get out and explore Australia’s largest urban parkland this summer - the hard part is choosing which attractions to visit first.
“With more people opting to holiday closer to home this year and still wanting to seek out new experiences, Western Sydney Parklands is fast becoming a destination on the top of many people’s ‘to do’ lists.
“There’s also a wide range of free nature experiences including over 60km of tracks and trails, perfect for walking, running and cycling, with spectacular bushland scenery and views to Sydney’s CBD, and great accommodation options for those visiting the region. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the offers available this summer and pay a visit to the Parklands,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
To find out what’s on at Western Sydney Parklands this summer, click here.
HUNTER VALLEY LIGHTS UP FOR CHRISTMAS
One of Hunter Valley’s most-loved annual celebrations is underway, after receiving an exemption from NSW Health to have up to 5,000 attendees at any one time.
More than three million lights are illuminating Hunter Valley Gardens as part of the Christmas Lights Spectacular, which this year features more than 20 new displays in addition to previous crowd favourites such as the giant Walk-Through Bauble and Light Tunnel.
With international travel off the cards this year, Hunter Valley Gardens is bringing the world to the region with a new Around the World display, where guests can wander past some of the world’s most famous landmarks.
Other key displays include Lovers Corner, Santa’s Castle and Snowy the Snowman.
The Christmas Lights Spectacular is an important event on the region’s calendar, employing a significant number of locals to run the event each year.
The Gardens’ Marketing Manager Kim Jacobs said: “After a tough year for many Australians, we are so happy to provide a wonderful escape for families and their loved ones. We are so pleased that the restrictions have been lifted and so that many more people will be able to enjoy this special time with us.”
The Christmas Lights Spectacular is open nightly from 6pm until 26 January 2021 (closed 25 December). Tickets are $30 for adults and $25 for children (4-15 years). Family ticket prices are also available. For more details, click here.
HAWKESBURY CAMPAIGN SECURES EDITORIAL SPREAD
Destination NSW secured a four-page editorial spread in The Sunday Telegraph's Escape lift out as part of the Hawkesbury’s The River’s Just The Beginning campaign, the third wave which commenced on 17 September. The eight-week marketing campaign has used social and digital advertising to highlight the region as an ideal overnight mid-week destination or perfect for a weekend getaway. Although the marketing activity officially ended on 17 November, the extended publicity activity will be rolled-out online over four weeks, with the first piece now live. Trip planning to the Hawkesbury is easy with Destination NSW's interactive digital map, available here.
NSW FIRST INDUSTRY WEBINARS GIVE BUSINESSES A BOOST
Two upcoming NSW First industry events will offer tourism operators key tips and information on how to create new business opportunities. The first Sip, Chat & Discover webinar next Wednesday 2 December, will inform wineries about how to create bookable experiences that are memorable and immersive and help to increase tourism revenue. On 3 December, tourism businesses are invited to participate in the NSW road trips industry briefing to learn about Destination NSW's newest marketing program, The Great Escape. The webinar will include an update about Destination NSW’s marketing activity for the remaining 2019-20 financial year, and practical tips on how to leverage the program to attract more visitors. Following the presentation, there will be a Q&A session for attendees.
EXTENDED DEADLINE FOR BUSHFIRE FUND APPLICATIONS
The deadline for applications to the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund has been extended until 28 January 2021. The package is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments and supports social and economic recovery in regional communities most affected by the 2019-2020 bushfires. Funding is available in three categories: infrastructure projects (such as roads to support increased industrial development); environmental projects (such as regeneration activities); and programs (including social, business, environmental and education initiatives). For more information on eligibility and how to apply, click here.
CARAVAN SAFETY CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED
The Caravan Industry Association of Australia has launched its ‘Caravan / RV Road Safety’ initiative ahead of the upcoming holiday season, when it expects more than 741,000 registered Recreational Vehicles (RVs) will hit the road. Partnering with other state caravan and associated industry bodies, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia has developed free digital and print assets to educate the public about recreational road safety. The information focuses on towing, vehicle preparation and RV weights, best practice truck rest stop usage and rest area signage. To learn more, visit the National Recreational Vehicle Towing Guide and Co-Exist, Road sharing with heavy vehicles.
2021-23 HERITAGE GRANTS NOW OPEN
The NSW Government is offering more than $5 million worth of grants over two years to help identify, conserve and celebrate NSW’s rich heritage. The 2021-23 NSW Heritage Grants Program is offered in three categories: Aboriginal Cultural Heritage, Caring for State Heritage and Community Heritage, and has been expended to help owners and custodians of heritage places affected by natural disasters. Projects in the Aboriginal Cultural Heritage Grants category can include works to Aboriginal cultural heritage sites, as well as projects that celebrate and promote greater understanding of Aboriginal cultural heritage. The 2021-23 NSW Heritage Grants Program funding round is open until 8 February 2021. For more information including guidelines, visit Heritage NSW.
ENRICHED EXPERIENCE AT ECHO POINT
The $7 million redevelopment of Echo Point in Katoomba has officially opened with a greatly enhanced visitor experience. The new site includes a gathering space (community amphitheatre); a new Prince of Wales Lookout providing a closer view of The Three Sisters; and a 140-metre accessible, elevated, night-lit boardwalk connecting the lookouts, amphitheatre and Visitor Information Centre. The gathering space was developed following consultation with the Dharug and Gundungurra Peoples and features a stylised “Map of Country” etched into the concrete floor of the stage area, as well as LED lights that mirror four constellations of the night sky. Watch aerial footage of the redeveloped Echo Point and learn more here.
REGIONAL SERVICES RESUME BETWEEN VICTORIA AND NSW
Regional rail and coach services have resumed between Victoria and NSW, following the reopening of the border between the two states. All services are running at a COVID-safe capacity with enhanced cleaning and other measures continuing to keep customers and staff safe. Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole said: “NSW is very much open for business – we’re here to help people get to where they want to go with affordable transport options to visit family and friends across the border, as well as providing the opportunity to explore all that regional NSW has to offer.” To book tickets and for more information, visit Transport NSW.
NEW VISIT WOLLONDILLY WEBSITE NOW LIVE
Wollondilly Council has launched its new Visit Wollondilly website. The new website has improved user navigation, making it easier for potential visitors to plan their trip to the region while supporting local tourism providers. Visitors to the website can browse a range of categories, including Experience, Taste, Stay, Plan and Events, while business and event owners can easily submit a listing to feature on the website. Mayor Robert Khan said: “The new website is a great way to attract tourists to our region. Most people go online to plan their holidays and visits to new destinations, so the website is the perfect way to reach out to those who are thinking about visiting Wollondilly.”
THREE BLUE DUCKS OPENS IN SNOWY MOUNTAINS
Three Blue Ducks has welcomed its fifth venue in NSW, opening at Nimbo Fork Lodge in the Snowy Mountains on Wednesday this week. Consistent with the Three Blue Ducks’ other venues, the restaurant focuses on sustainable and ethically farmed produce and has a kitchen garden on-site. Menu highlights include whole Nimbo butterflied trout with capers, garlic, lemon and dill, and Nimbo tomahawk lamb chop with zucchini, mint and spring peas. The beverage list features a strong list of local NSW wines and beers. Surrounded by rural farmland in Tumut Valley, Nimbo Fork also caters for functions including health retreats, weddings, corporate events and birthday celebrations.
