COFFS COAST TOURISM ASSOCIATION MEMBERS

Thank you for the opportunity to address you on Tuesday 26th August. Since I was first elected to Council in 1991 I still get great pleasure to reflect on decisions that I have supported that now makes Coffs Harbour the great place that it is. My support for the upgrade of the Coffs Harbour Regional Airport in 1993 now allows us to boast what I call one of, if not the best regional airport in Australia. But we need to continue it’s growth to secure more visitors numbers and to this end I continue my involvement with the airline operators for additional flights to new destinations and more direct flights to Melbourne to support our conference market. Council will soon commence a 1.5 million dollar upgrade to full baggage screening which will further enhance our airport. Our airport is something we should all be proud of.

My support to push for the construction of the Coffs Harbour International Sports Stadium in 1992 has been kicking goals ever since it opened in June 1994. It always gives me great pride when in the off season I see the town full of mini buses transporting the sports men and women to and from their accommodation to the facility. You all know the benefits that flow from these events to the local tourism industry. In coming months we have the Police and Emergency Services Games for the first time in Coffs and that will attract some 3000 competitors. Bring them on. Sports tourism now contributes some 40 million dollars to the local economy each year. Of all the wonderful things that I have been involved in, this facility holds a special place in my heart.

But we must continue to work together, Council and the Association, to deliver further benefits to your industry. I offer experience and proven leadership skills as Mayor to lead a committed team of Councillors to continue to build this wonderful city. My team members standing with me offer enhanced skills. Kerry Hines has a wealth of knowledge in small business and Denise Knight has a great passion for the theatre through her involvement as a producer and director. Who can forget “Calamity Jane” which Denise produced and directed earlier this year at the Jetty Memorial Theatre. The Arts also contribute to a thriving tourism economy.

We seek your support on Saturday 13^th September. We simply ask that you consider supporting Group D in the election and supporting Keith Rhoades to be re-elected as our cities Mayor. All four current Councillors seeking re-election deserve your support as I believe they have delivered to you over the past four and a half years.