‘I am delighted to announce the NSW Government’s support for Wings Over Illawarra in 2015 that confirms this event as a leading annual air show in the region,’ Mr Barilaro said.
‘The air show is important to the region’s community and economy with an expected 11,000 visitors from outside the region next year that will inject an estimated $1.7 million to the NSW economy.
‘The new two-day format in 2015 encourages visitors to take a short break and stay a whole weekend to view the impressive air show that features historic military and aerobatic aircraft, as well as take on-ground flight simulators,’ Mr Barilaro said.
Member for Kiama Gareth Ward said Wings Over Illawarra has been held since 2007 at Illawarra Regional Airport, and 2015 will be its biggest year when it is held for the first time over two days, on May 2 and 3.
‘Wings Over Illawarra is the only major annual air show in NSW, and its success was recognised in 2013 when it was named the Gold Winner for Events at the South Coast Tourism Awards,’ Mr Ward said.
‘The Illawarra is a spectacular part of NSW with plenty to offer visitors and provides several tourism opportunities that are a unique asset for the region.
‘Visitors to the region for Wings Over Illawarra can enjoy adventure activities such as hang-gliding, paragliding, cycling and skydiving, or water-based activities such as surfing, swimming and sailing,’ Mr Ward said.
Member for South Coast Shelley Hancock said the region is increasingly becoming known as a destination for aviation based tourism, where people come to take part in recreational flying, air sports, training, and aviation based adventure activities.
‘Local residents can discover some of the South Coast’s wonderful cafes and restaurants, or spend a day or two exploring the picturesque Shoalhaven towns of Jervis Bay, Nowra, Mollymook and Ulladulla,’ she said.
For more information click on VisitNSW.com
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