Coffs Harbour will play host to some of the world’s elite beach athletes with the popular Summer of Surf World Cup series to host a four-day event, thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said a $200,000 grant under Round Two of the fund would see an expected 10,000 visitors flock to Coffs Harbour to watch the ocean swim, beach events, and fun run among other summer sports.
“The festival will be a great opportunity for locals and visitors alike to see some of the best domestic and international life savers do their thing, competing in multiple surf sport events over a four-day, family friendly festival,” Mr Toole said.
“With so many visitors expected, and the finals to be live streamed around the world, it’s also a fantastic opportunity to promote this beautiful region and its stunning beaches.
“It’s not just about the sand and surf though; a free ‘Festival Zone’ will incorporate food trucks, market stalls, art, live music and a movie night to ensure there truly is something for everyone to enjoy over the course of the festival and encourage more overnight stays.”
Nationals Member for Coffs Harbour Gurmesh Singh said the Regional Events Acceleration Fund is supporting the growth of existing regional events and attracting new major domestic and international events to regional NSW.
“We are serious about driving investment and tourism in the regions,” Mr Singh said.
“The Regional Events Acceleration Fund will put more heads on beds, fill restaurants and cafés, and help drive growth in regional NSW.
“The fund has already supported more than 80 events and attracted an estimated one million visitors to the regions.”
Summer of Surf spokesman Ben Cochrane said the funding secured from the Regional Events Acceleration Fund would allow them to showcase elite athletes in an event not seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic.
“With many sports being sidelined since COVID, Summer of Surf is excited to work with the NSW Government to create an amazing athlete and community experience while bringing together the world’s best surf life savers in Coffs Harbour,” Mr Cochrane said.
“Thanks to the NSW Government, we are privileged to be able to showcase the beautiful coastlines of regional NSW, whilst combining elite racing with a festival experience for all to enjoy.”
The $40 million Regional Events Acceleration Fund is part of the $3.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and community infrastructure for regional communities.
For further information, including program guidelines and eligibility criteria, go to: nsw.gov.au/REAFund
