The annual LGNSW Tourism Conference gives councillors and council staff the opportunity to meet, listen to experts and peers, and find out how other councils are engaging and managing their tourism industry.

“We are delighted to have been selected to co-host the conference to hear from leading experts in the tourism industry and to showcase what our region has to offer,” Parkes Shire Mayor, Cr Ken Keith OAM said.

“We are really looking forward to welcoming tourism professionals from across the State to Parkes and share ideas with other local councils about how they are developing their key tourism attractions and initiatives.”

Tourism is a key economic driver for Parkes Shire with an estimated value of $58 million per annum, attributable to the diverse range of unique events, agricultural and historical attractions.

Approximately 200 delegates from across NSW are expected to attend the three day conference, held at Parkes Leagues Club.

Each year the conference sets a theme, yet to be announced for 2018, with experts and keynote speakers sharing the latest research and news on how best to leverage local tourism initiatives and attractions, and overcome tourism challenges.

The 2018 conference will be held from Monday, March 12 until Wednesday, March 14 in Parkes.

The conference has previously been co-hosted by MidCoast Council in 2017, Byron and Ballina Councils in 2016, and Bathurst Regional Council in 2015.