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| Port Stephens |
The recognition comes after an impressive year for Port Stephens’ tourism industry, which saw the region claim multiple accolades at the 2024 NSW Tourism Awards. Moonshadow-TQC Cruises earned silver in the Major Tour & Transport Operators category, while 4WD Tours R Us and Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary also received silver in their respective categories. Adding to the list of achievements, The Poyer’s Restaurant at Lemon Tree Passage was awarded Seafood Restaurant of the Year at the Sydney Fish Market’s 2024 Seafood Excellence Awards.
Recent data from Tourism Research Australia highlights the region’s growing appeal, with 800,000 domestic overnight visitors recorded in the year ending September 2024, reflecting a 2.4 per cent increase year-on-year. Visitor spending also rose significantly, reaching $700 million, marking an 11.5 per cent jump. International tourism is also on the rise, with 27,500 visitors contributing $13.4 million to the local economy.
Port Stephens is gearing up for an even bigger tourism boom in 2025, with several key events and infrastructure projects set to elevate the region’s profile further. One of the most anticipated events, Sail Port Stephens, will take place from 31 March to 4 May 2025, drawing thousands of visitors and injecting an estimated $2 million into the local economy.
Another major development on the horizon is the opening of Newcastle Airport’s international terminal on 1 August 2025. This milestone, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Destination NSW and Newcastle Airport, includes airline incentives and strategic marketing support to enhance international connectivity. Located just minutes from Port Stephens, the expanded airport is expected to unlock new travel opportunities, positioning the region as a key gateway for both domestic and international visitors.
The tourism momentum continues beyond Australian borders, with Nelson Bay-based Moonshadow-TQC Cruises among 18 NSW tourism operators set to participate in a Destination NSW trade mission to the United States in March 2025. The North America Roadshow will include workshops and networking events in Los Angeles and New York, strengthening ties with global travel buyers and further cementing Port Stephens’ reputation as a must-visit destination.
Minister for Tourism John Graham emphasized the significance of these developments, stating that Port Stephens represents the world-class experiences driving growth in the NSW visitor economy. From its pristine coastline and rich cultural heritage to its exceptional dining and adventure tourism offerings, the region delivers the authentic and memorable travel experiences modern visitors seek.
Port Stephens’ triumph in the Wotif awards was part of a broader success story for regional NSW, with Kingscliff and Yamba also securing spots in the top 10 Aussie Towns of the Year. Acting CEO of Destination NSW, Karen Jones, highlighted that with more NSW towns featured in the rankings than any other state, the region continues to captivate travelers both locally and internationally.
With new research indicating that 78 per cent of Australians plan to travel domestically in 2025—a notable increase from the previous year—Port Stephens is set to welcome even more visitors eager to explore its breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and world-class hospitality.
For those planning their next escape, Port Stephens offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure, making it an unmissable destination for 2025 and beyond.
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