Local councils and tourism leaders look to chart course for capitalising on regional cruise growth

Looking to unlock new opportunities for local businesses to benefit from the regional cruise industry in NSW, seven councils and two peak tourism organisations from the Hunter and Central Coast are meeting for the first time today as part of a landmark Memorandum of Understanding.

Today’s meeting marked the official launch of the three-year partnership, led by Port Authority of NSW, which brings together Newcastle Council, Lake Macquarie Council, Cessnock Council, Singleton Council, Port Stephens Council, Maitland Council, Central Coast Council, Destination Sydney Surrounds North, and Newcastle Tourism Industry Group, to enhance cruise visitor experiences that support cruise growth, and supporting local business to capitalise on the increasing opportunities.

A key outcome from the agreement is joint funding for a part-time Cruise Coordinator that will work with cruise lines to expand their itineraries so that their passengers can experience the very best of the vibrant Hunter and Central Coast regions.

Port Authority of NSW Chief Executive John McKenna said the MoU agreement would support local businesses to develop tourism offerings tailored to capture the cruise market over the next decade.

McKenna noted “this partnership is about more than just welcoming cruise ships. It’s about showcasing the incredible experiences the regions have to offer-from the natural beauty of the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley’s world-class wine country to the vibrant energy of Newcastle itself.

“It’s a win-win: passengers get unforgettable experiences, and local businesses and communities benefit from the economic opportunities that come with a thriving cruise industry.”

Port Authority of NSW General Manager Cruise Martin Bidgood said the agreement was a significant milestone for the long-term strategy to grow regional tourism and added “this landmark agreement is a one-of-a-kind model for the Hunter and Central Coast region, drawing on the combined strengths of the local councils and peak regional tourism bodies.

"It’s the natural next step following Port Authority's planned expansion of cruise into Newcastle Harbour through a new 10-year licence agreement with Port of Newcastle, announced in 2023.

“This arrangement reinforces Port Authority’s commitment to supporting the state’s cruise industry and driving regional tourism.”

Port Authority is spearheading the initiative, drawing on expertise from similar successful arrangements such as at the Port of Eden, now recognised nationally as an exemplary regional cruise port model.

Image. Cruise ship docked at Newcastle Harbour Credit: Destination NSW