Does our region have an ideal mix of visitor types? and if so, what can be done to attract and retain them?

It’s a huge question, but that’s exactly what the 2019 Ballina Byron Gateway Airport Annual Byron Tourism Symposium is asking members of the local visitor economy to consider.

Now in its sixth year, Destination Byron’s hallmark event will take place on Friday, 7 June at Elements of Byron resort. We’ve now finalised a multi-faceted line-up of local and national keynote speakers set to share their stories, insights, and opinions.

Hear from Robert Pennicott, the pioneer of eco-tourism in Tasmania and Steve McPharlin, CEO of Tourism Noosa among key players in the local visitor industry. Jeremy Holmes and I will have another crack at futurism and present a revised version of our ‘Top 10 Travel Trends’ discussion from last year.

Morning tea and lunch is included. The event will close with drinks and an opportunity to network with speakers and fellow attendees.

The annual Tourism Symposium allows us, as members of Byron’s visitor economy, to look to the future, to acknowledge where we are, and create a clearer picture of what our local tourism industry should aspire to become.

Early-bird tickets are on sale now. Check out the full program and book at www.trybooking.com/BBBYG.

The Tourism Symposium represents just one event in our 2019 series. Through world-class events, Destination Byron creates an open opportunity for all members of the Byron visitor economy to connect, network, and educate.

We are fortunate to live in a region that’s passionate about delivering a superior visitor experience, one that fulfils both our social and environmental obligations. Destination Byron gives us a forum to work collaboratively to strengthen, grow, and support a responsible, industry-leading tourism economy in Byron Bay and surrounds.

Thanks to our generous sponsors, membership in 2019 is free to all that participate in the region’s visitor economy. Become a member of Destination Byron today and receive the latest local and industry news direct to your inbox. Visit www.destinationbyron.com.au and subscribe to our newsletter to join.

The skills-based volunteer board at Destination Byron are grateful for the chance to promote a sustainable visitor economy here in the Byron Shire. We hope to see you at the upcoming Byron Tourism Symposium on June 7 at Elements of Byron.

DAVID JONES

President