Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres said the awards were given to global cities which embrace the importance of festivals and events in driving economic and social growth.
“This award speaks to strength of the NSW Government’s major events strategy and acclaimed reputation for delivering world-class event experiences. It reinforces that our work throughout regional and metropolitan areas is second to none and we remain committed to ensuring every corner of the State continues to thrive.
“This is the ninth time Sydney has won this accolade as a World Festival and Event City and is the only destination to have received this award annually since its inception,” Mr Ayres said.
“The NSW Government has secured or retained over 700 events since the creation of our tourism and major events agency, Destination NSW in 2011 and has developed Vivid Sydney into Australia’s largest event and the Southern Hemisphere’s largest festival of light, music and ideas. NSW’s events calendar continues to grow, which ultimately means more visitors, jobs and a thriving economy.”
Member for Coffs Harbour, Gurmesh Singh reiterated the significance of the win for the regional city against some of the world’s most iconic tourism destinations.
“Coffs Harbour continues to go from strength to strength and to be recognised for the fifth year in a row, amongst the likes of Sydney, Dubai and Moscow, demonstrates that our events and festival offering is nothing short of world-class!” Mr Singh said.
Sydney and Coffs Harbour were selected by an international panel of judges in recognition of their community leadership and ongoing, concerted efforts to provide a positive environment that fosters the success and growth of festivals and events.
In addition to claiming two major IFEA World Festival & Event City Awards Sydney and Coffs Harbour, Destination NSW has also received in multiple categories for its creativity and excellence surrounding Vivid Sydney.
