Restaurant business increases

Restaurants in Woy Woy and Umina have increased business, despite the effects of the coronavirus.

This is one the findings of research conducted by Tourism Research Australia, according to a report to Central Coast Council.

The report about "Progress of Actions of the Destination Management Plan" said that, for the year to June, the research had shown 21.8 per cent decline in domestic visitor expenditure to $516 million, a 58 per cent decline in international visitor expenditure to $26 million and a 3.7 per cent decline in domestic day visitor expenditure to $338 million.

However, the report stated: "In terms of spend overall on the Central Coast, it has continued to increase significantly year-on-year, with recent months since April experiencing a 20 per cent or more increase."

It cited "the restaurant sector", quoting Umina and Woy Woy where "the spend is up year-on-year" by 30 per cent and 20 per cent respectively.

"By comparison, restaurant spend in Sydney is down almost 50 per cent year on year."

The report said: "With restrictions easing in September and October, Council staff were also able to deliver small school holiday activaties in four town centres including Woy Woy with a total economic impact of $30,000."

In a media release, interim administrator Mr Dick Persson said: "The Central Coast tourism sector has rallied strongly and is set for a bumper summer season after being hit hard by Covid-19 lockdowns.

"As Covid-19 restrictions eased, restaurant spending numbers have been particularly impressive since April.

"The Central Coast Destination Management Plan 2018-2021 seeks to ensure the long-term viability and sustainability of the region's tourism sector, including securing grant funding to deliver targeted campaigns and initiatives," he said.

SOURCE:

Central Coast Council agenda 3.3, 23 Nov 2020

Media release, 23 Nov 2020

Dick Persson, Central Coast Council