Narooma Oyster Festival has thanked partners who have granted "substantial support" to the May 3-4 event.
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The festival said its profile was growing "as a quality event that brings business to the area and builds a unique and positive brand for Narooma".
Spokesperson Cath Peachey said Narooma Chamber of Commerce instigated the festival to showcase the region’s quality produce, especially its oysters, and its unique experiences to visitors at a slower time of year.
“It’s grown significantly over its 11 years to become regional NSW’s premier oyster, seafood and cultural festival,” she said.
“Over two years, we’ve increased the festival and Narooma’s profile in our target domestic markets and on the international stage, thanks to significant Destination NSW Regional Flagship funding, which underpins the marketing effort.
“Small towns are competing for year-round visitor spend. The festival provides a terrific marketing opportunity for Narooma to stand out from the crowd, which is important for economic development; it’s something we would not be able to do without Destination NSW support.”
She said festival partners Narooma Sporting and Services Club, Eurobodalla Shire Council, Australia’s Oyster Coast, Estia Health and the Katungul Aboriginal Corporation recognised that success.
Club Narooma CEO Tony Casu said it was “right behind anything that supports the town and the community”.
“The festival brings in a tremendous amount of business, which boosts our local economy,” he said. “Many locals are members of this club and we’re here to support them.” Members can soon buy discounted festival tickets at reception.
Mrs Peachey said it would not happen without the "support of these major partners, the many sponsors from our local business community and the army of volunteers who lend a hand on the weekend".
“It now costs over $150,000 to put on; that includes world class cooking demonstrations, an extensive music line-up, many free kids’ rides and fireworks,” she said.
For more information, visit www.naroomaoysterfestival.com.