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Welcome to August – despite the chill of one of our coldest winters for decades, we’re on the downhill run to Spring! The good news is that the weather hasn’t prevented tourism activity from continuing in the region.

A highlight of the month was the launch by Minister for the Illawarra, David Campbell of the Grand Pacific Drive scoping study at Grand Mercure Kiama Blue on July 6. Minister Campbell was extremely impressed that the regions councils are strong supporters of the scenic coastal drive initiated by Tourism Wollongong.

Also, we held our quarterly 'Talking Tourism' networking function at the Illawarra Leagues Club on Tuesday 24 July, where members got a sneak preview of future developments for Grand Pacific Drive and marketing initiatives in line with Tourism NSW Sydney Surrounds and South Coast Campaigns.

Much achieved but always, more to do . . .

Until next month
Greg Binskin
General Manager

Blueprint for Grand Pacific Drive

Minister David Campbell joined Mayors, Councilors and General Managers of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla, Bega and Wingecarribee Councils in launching the Grand Pacific Drive Scoping Study and Master Plan, a strategic blueprint for the development of Grand Pacific Drive for the next 10-15 years.

The Master Plan has identified more than 200 projects to capitalise on the success of the Illawarra’s stunning coastal road, Minister for the Illawarra David Campbell said. The Grand Pacific Drive Scoping Study and Master Plan was a joint initiative with the Illawarra Regional Development Board.

Entries open for 2007 Illawarra Tourism Awards

Operators are encouraged to get their entries in for the revitalised 2007 Illawarra Tourism Awards following their official launch on June 26. Even if you’re not keen to enter yourself, under new rules you can nominate a peer for an award. Entry packs have been sent out, but if you missed yours, you can download an entry form via the Illawarra Tourism website or contact your local tourism association.

This year the awards, which offer new and revised categories, an updated judging criteria and opportunities for peer nomination, will take on a ‘Food and Wine’ theme.

Entries close at 5pm Friday August 17 and the awards presentation has been earmarked for Friday September 21 at the WIN Sports and Entertainment Centre. For information about ticketing for the event, email Melissa Davis or ask your local tourism association.

Farewell Kate and Rachael

Tourism Wollongong has farewelled two of its valued employees. Kate Dombkins left in early July to further expand her tourism career in Sydney, after spending almost three years as Tourism Wollongong’s Sales and Marketing Coordinator and Grand Pacific Drive Project Manager. Rachael Lihou, Sales and Marketing Manager-Conference and Events, also left Tourism Wollongong and like Kate, will remain in the tourism industry however in Canberra.

Thankyou to both for their hard work and dedication to tourism in Wollongong. They will be missed.

Members getting FAMILiar with the regions' products

A diverse and enthusiastic range of operators came together for a fantastic Tourism Wollongong hosted industry famil last month. The event gave participants the opportunity to discover what other attractions exist along Grand Pacific Drive - whilst also having the opportunity to network and build relationships.
Operators in the north featured included Symbio Wildlife Park, Scarborough Hotel, Janet's Royalty Rooms and Towradgi Beach Hotel while in the Wollongong CBD, the University of Wollongong Science Centre and Planetarium, Skydive the Beach and Leisure Coast Limousines (who provided the transport) were on the visit card.

Thanks to all who took part in this important event and stay tuned for the next one – which will feature the CBD and south, during October. For further information, contact Tourism Wollongong on 02 4228 0300.

It's time to renew your membership

Don’t forget to renew your Tourism Wollongong membership, which are now due – or join us if you haven’t already taken advantage of the benefits of being part of the team. Thanks to those illustrious members who have already taken steps to ensure they are part of the expanding tourism industry – you can look forward to an exciting year ahead!

Also, give some thought to potential new members. If you know of anyone you think should be a part of Tourism Wollongong, encourage them to find out more by calling Greg Soster on 4228 0300 or email.

What's on and where...

Bulli Markets
When: Sunday August 12
Time: 9am – 3pm
Where: Bulli Harness Club Grounds Princes Highway, Bulli
Info: 02 4285 0333 or www.bullimarkets.com.au

St George Illawarra Dragons Vs South Sydney Rabbitohs
When: Saturday August 11
Where: WIN Sports & Entertainment Centre, Cnr Crown and Harbour Street, Wollongong
Info: 02 4220 2800 or www.wec.org.au

The 28th Australian Waveski Surfing Titles
When: Monday July 30 – Saturday August 4 
Where: Various Northern Wollongong beaches
Info: 0422 007 882 or www.waveskisurfingaust.com

Black Sabbath 'Heaven and Hell Tour'
When: Tuesday August 7
Where: WIN Sports & Entertainment Centre, Cnr Crown and Harbour Street, Wollongong
Info: 02 4220 2828 or www.wec.org.au

Mater Dei Race Day @ Kembla Grange Racecourse
When: Saturday August 4
Where: Princes Highway, Kembla Grange
Info: 02 4261 7211 or www.kemblagrangeracing.com.au