Hosted by Kempsey Shire Council and Destination North Coast under the theme Evolving Together, the event will focus on business sustainability and the importance of evolving to meet future consumer needs.

The South West Rocks Country Club is one of the 27 tourism businesses, events and visitor experiences that have been announced as finalists.

Council's economic development and tourism coordinator, Marilyn Breen, said it was the first time the symposium had been held locally, providing a rare opportunity for local businesses to network with industry peers.

"The full-day program presents an exciting professional development opportunity for all sectors of the North Coast tourism industry with a host of compelling speakers, an innovative format and updates on Destination North Coast's activities," she said.

"It's not very often that local tourism business operators have the chance to get together and collaborate with industry peers and keep abreast of emerging trends and challenges."

Guest speakers from Destination North Coast, Tourism Australia, Earthcheck, GreenX7, and The Intrepid Traveller will cover a range of topics including sustainable, cultural and nature-based tourism, adventure and experience-rich travel, cruises, food and wine trails, education and much more.

The symposium runs from 8.30am to 4.30pm and is followed by the North Coast Regional Tourism Awards gala dinner from 6pm which will celebrate the quality and diversity of regional tourism. Both events will be held at the South West Rocks Country Club on Thursday, August 1.

For more information, contact Kristy Forche-Baird from council's Economic Development and Tourism Unit on 6566-3113 or visit: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/north-coast-tourism-symposium-gala-awards-dinner-tickets-62181940859

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