Cowra Tourism Board Chairman Mark Willoughby, says that Cowra is facing the same challenges as tourism in other centre and despite what Tourism NSW had described as downturn in tourism visitation an estimated 132,000 people had stayed in Cowra last year.
Mr Willoughby said “On average, overnight visitors spend $116 per person which equates to more than $15 million dollars in direct expenditure.” “Indirectly this figure expands to $25 million in tourism income for the shire,”
“This year the trading operation for the organisation has reported a loss of $42,818 compared to a $13,151 profit last year, which is due mainly to a loss at the Japanese Garden of $25,746 because of a downturn in visitation to the garden and a major increase in insurance and electricity costs.”
“The Visitors Centre also recorded a loss of $17,072 which was due to an increase in marketing promotion, insurance and some carryover costs from 2005.”
Mr Willoughby said these losses were not unexpected but the board has been putting in place measures to combat further falls in visitation, adding, “To this end a refurbishment of the shop area at the Garden has increased souvenir sales and upgrading of the public amenities and the ponds using a Community Water Grant of $60,000 should make a big difference to water and electricity expenses.
“Cowra Tourism has once again delivered on all major activities and the staff has provided fantastic customer service, information, marketing and the management of the Japanese Garden during the past 12 months.”
Mr Willoughby said he regretted standing down from his position on the Tourism Board but increasing work commitments meant he could not devote the time necessary for the position.
“The support of the Council allows the operation of the Visitors Centre seven days a week, management of the Japanese Garden and promotion of Cowra outside the region and they provide just under 23% of our income and I thank the Mayor and General Manager and Councillors for their support,” Mr Willoughby said.
Report by The Mole
