The NSW caravan and camping industry was prominently featured at the LGNSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference held in Wagga Wagga.
Sponsored by the Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW (CCIA NSW), this three-day event, from May 28-30, brought together local government officials, industry stakeholders, and operators to discuss trends and strategies for promoting regional tourism.
This year, the NSW caravan and camping industry reported significant growth, with visitors spending 19.7 million nights in caravan and camping accommodations—a 14% increase from the previous year.
The industry now boasts over 850,000 registered recreational vehicles across Australia, reflecting a growing trend in outdoor and adventure tourism, according to a LinkedIn post by the CCIA NSW.
The conference emphasized the importance of networking and sharing insights to attract more visitors to regional towns. By leveraging these connections, local operators can better implement strategies that cater to the evolving preferences of tourists.
Various sessions and workshops at the event explored innovative ways to showcase regional destinations, including effective marketing strategies and infrastructure development, as shown in the conference’s website.
Government and industry collaboration was a key theme, aiming to create a cohesive approach to boosting the visitor economy. Discussions also addressed the challenges faced by the industry, such as delays in local-level clearances, and proposed solutions to streamline processes.
Stakeholder feedback played a crucial role in shaping the conference’s agenda. Attendees highlighted the need for more caravan parks and better marketing to target the right audience both domestically and internationally. This engagement ensures that the industry’s future development aligns with market demands.
The NSW caravan and camping industry continues to thrive, driven by its ability to adapt and innovate. With ongoing support from the government and active engagement from stakeholders, the sector is well-positioned to contribute significantly to the state’s tourism landscape.
Featured image by Caravan and Camping Industry Association NSW via linkedin.com/company/cciansw