‘Regional NSW is making a significant contribution towards achieving the Government’s goal of doubling overnight visitor expenditure by 2020,’ Mr Barilaro said.

‘In the year ended September 2014, Regional NSW welcomed more than 50.4 million international and domestic visitors who spent $13.3 billion. This represents 48 per cent of the State’s visitor expenditure for this period,’ he said.

‘The Regional Flagship Events Program is a great way to entice visitors to our regions to get a taste of what regional NSW has to offer.

‘There are so many holidays or short break options across regional NSW, giving families and friends a great opportunity to jump in the car and create wonderful, life-long memories.

‘Events like the Thredbo Blues Festival, Hunter Valley Food and Wine Month as well as the Peak Festival in Perisher, increase visitation and benefit local communities by providing jobs and stimulating the economy.

‘There are numerous other events and festivals that receive grants through the Regional Flagship Events Program, all of which are vital for our regional visitor economy.

‘These events have a key role in delivering economic prosperity to regions because they attract visitors to local towns and support local businesses.

‘The Regional Flagship Events Program provides one-year grants of $10,000 and three-year grants totalling $60,000 to assist the marketing and advertising of events and festivals that reflect the unique character of our regions,’ Mr Barilaro said.

A full list of Regional Flagship Events can be found here www.destinationnsw.com.au/regional-flagship-events-program-2015

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