2013 It's On! In Wollongong Campaign Launched

The 2013 It’s ON! in Wollongong campaign whas just been launched. This aims to build awareness of the series of summer events happening in and around Wollongong and attract visitors to the region during the summer period.

As testament to the efficiency of its marketing power, last summer, the It’s ON! in Wollongong campaign was named the region's best tourism-promotion effort, at the 2013 South Coast Tourism Awards.

In June 2013, Destination Wollongong released visitor numbers showing 3.6 million domestic day trippers had visited the Illawarra in the 12 months to March – up 10 per cent on previous year.

This year, Destination Wollongong is continuing to build on the campaign’s track record of success with 18 exciting sporting and cultural events being held between December and March – making up Wollongong's ‘Summer of Fun’.

Speaking at the launch of the event at Destination Wollongong’s headquarters, Minister Ajaka said: “The It’s ON! in Wollongong campaign has become a benchmark of excellence in regional events marketing and is a partnership between Destination NSW and Destination Wollongong.

“The campaign’s dedicated focus on bringing more overnight visitors to generate increased visitor expenditure has achieved outstanding results for the local visitor economy.”

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris said: “Destination Wollongong’s action-packed program of 18 events over the 2012 summer period injected $22 million into the local economy.

“Clearly, the It’s ON! in Wollongong campaign is a working model that will be looked to by other Regional Tourism Organisations as a campaign strategy that is not only to be admired but also to be emulated.”

Destination NSW CEO, Sandra Chipchase said: “Destination NSW is pleased to have worked with Destination Wollongong in delivering the successful outcomes of the It’s ON! in Wollongong campaign.

“It’s ON! in Wollongong has enhanced visitation to the area and heightened hotel occupancy during the summer months.”

Photo: (L to R) Stuart Barnes-Chairman, Destination Wollongong, Mark Sleigh-GM, Destination Wollongong, Rob Battochio, event organiser-Aquathon and Splash & Dash, Minister Ajaka, Councillor Gordon Bradbery OAM, Lord Mayor of Wollongong, Alfredo Mousinho Esteves, event organiser-Aust. Beach Soccer Cup.