Port Authority of NSW renews commitment to Bega Valley Shire tourism

The partnership between the Port Authority of NSW and Bega Valley Shire Council is considered essential to unlocking regional tourism opportunities.  

Port Authority of NSW has renewed its commitment to supporting regional cruise growth in the Bega Valley Shire through an extended Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bega Valley Shire Council and Eden Tourism. 

The MoU includes $60,000 in funding over three years to support the Eden Cruise Coordinator, a role that supports cruise operations by coordinating volunteers and contributing to key visitor experiences such as the Taste of Eden festival and market activations.  

This complements Port Authority’s broader leadership in cruise across NSW by helping ensure smooth local operations and enhancing the passenger experience at Eden. 

Port Authority of NSW Chief Executive Officer John McKenna notes “this renewed partnership with Bega Valley Shire Council reflects Port Authority’s commitment to enabling safe, sustainable, and commercially vibrant port operations in the Sapphire Coast region and across New South Wales.

“We are grateful for the support of Bega Valley Shire Council. Together, we’re supporting regional destinations like Eden to support local communities, drive economic opportunity, and deliver long-term value through sustainable cruise development”.  

Port Authority of NSW General Manager of Cruise, Martin Bidgood added “Cruise visitation delivers tangible economic benefits to regional communities including fuelling jobs growth for small businesses, generating employment across hospitality, retail, and transport sectors, and increasing demand for locally sourced goods and services. 

“This is why Port Authority is proud to play a leading role in strengthening the cruise industry’s presence in regional destinations like Eden, helping them to unlock new opportunities for coastal communities.”

The announcement follows a similar MoU for Newcastle signed in June 2025, which saw Port Authority partner with several councils and tourism organisations to strengthen cruise visitation in the Hunter and Central Coast region.