Package tour project is funded

Member for Robertson, Mr Jim Lloyd has announced Federal funding of $140,000 for the Central Coast Ferry Package Tour project.

The total funding for the project, which is a joint venture between Central Coast Tourism, the private sector and the Federal and State Governments, will be $945,000.

Mr Lloyd said the project would involve the Ettalong Fast Ferry service, and would capitalise on existing tourist infrastructure, encouraging growth in tourism, hospitality and accommodation industries on the Central Coast.

"This project will develop and promote a range of tourism package tours to the domestic and international tourist markets," he said.

"It's important to emphasise that this project is not designed to promote any particular proposal to establish a fast ferry between the Central Coast and Sydney, but is designed to ensure that the coast takes full advantage of the tourism potential created by such projects."

Mr Lloyd said that the project would create a variety of package tours, aimed at attracting overseas clientele to the Central Coast and regional NSW. It would also promote, market and sell the package tours to overseas tour operators.

"In terms of sustainable growth, this project has the potential to attract an additional 92,000 visitors to the region and generate approximately 150 jobs, " Mr Lloyd said.

Amanda Jackson, March. 14