NEW SIGNAGE TO DRAW ATTENTION TO 'BYPASSED' COUNTRY TOWNS

It’s no longer out of sight out of mind for country towns bypassed by major highways, thanks to the roll out of iconic image signs reminding motorists of the gem they’re passing.

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said ‘Bypassed Town’ signs, the first image-based signs will help promote treasured towns.

“Local communities are calling for help to drive more tourists to their neck of the woods. This initiative aims to drive economic activity once a highway bypass opens to traffic, by using images of that town to attract visitors,” Mrs Pavey said.

The idea to roll out the signs came from a successful trial held in late 2017 and early last year, in which Roads and Maritime, in consultation with Destination NSW, created and installed bypassed town signs to promote three communities:

​Berry: off Princes Highway, South Coast NSW

Holbrook: off Hume Highway, South West NSW​

Macksville: off Pacific Highway, North Coast NSW

“I know from the locals of Macksville, the moment that bypass town sign was erected, more people stopped by for a sticky beak. It’s good for local cafes, restaurants and community as a whole,” Mrs Pavey said.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events Adam Marshall said “We’re absolutely committed to making it easier for rural and regional towns to attract more tourists and these signs will make a real difference by capturing people’s attention.”

www.destinationnsw.com.au