LOCAL tourism operators are gearing up for one of the season’s busiest long weekends, with the house-full sign expected to go up on many holiday units for the October long weekend.
The president of the Port Macquarie Tourism Association, Janette Hyde, said the feedback she had received from operators since the start of the September school holidays was good and indications were that this weekend should be a bumper one.
“I think the election has helped,” Mrs Hyde said.
“People were quite low and unsure of what was going to happen. Now we have a government – regardless of whether it is Labor or Liberal – everyone you talk to is a lot more positive about the future.”
She said traditionally many visitors booked a holiday unit for the three days, but there should be some good flow-on to motels.
“Really, the September school holidays and October long weekend are the start of the tourist season, which rolls right through January,” Mrs Hyde said.
“We also have a busy list of events, with Tastings on the Hastings starting soon and at least 12 more events between now and the end of October.”
Events on this weekend include Oasis by the River, which is a French-themed vintage car winery tour and lunch, and Breakfast in the Beds, a select-your own organic market breakfast. Both are on Sunday. For information visit www.facebook.com/oasisbythe river and www.breakfastinthebeds.com respectively.
Other events later in the month include the Port Macquarie Cup Carnival, High Tea on the Hastings, Jazz in Shiraz, Iron Kids, Ironman, Douglas Vale Open Day, a Night at the Brewery, Farm Gate Tour, Plate-tasting menu with matching wines, Tastings on Hastings dinner and SBS Feast Tastings on Hastings.
