City of Coffs Harbour continues push to be Australia’s leading eco-tourism destination as visitor numbers climb

Coffs Coast is grabbing the booming eco-tourism industry by the horns as its visitor economy rakes in more than a quarter of a billion dollars annually.

A diver at Solitary Island Marine Park on the Coffs Coast. Picture: Supplied

Coffs Coast is grabbing the booming eco-tourism industry by the horns as its visitor economy rakes in more than a quarter of a billion dollars each year.

City of Coffs Harbour Mayor Paul Amos and general manager Natalia Cowley have spoken out after the area was again recertified as an Aussie eco-destination by Ecotourism Australia

Mayor Paul Amos. Picture: Chris Knight

“This reaffirms that we are on track in a continuing journey,” Mr Amos said.

“We are a Place of Plenty – boasting NSW’s oldest marine park through to world class forests and national parks and the unique experience of Muttonbird Island, which is a significant place for Gumbaynggirr people.”

In late 2021, the city became the first in the state to be accredited and the second place in the nation, alongside Port Douglas, Far North Queensland.

Tourism is a key pillar of the city’s economy – tourism and hospitality account for 9 per cent of all jobs in the local government area compared to the NSW average 8 per cent, according to the Coffs Coast Tourism Strategy 2023.

Ms Cowley said: “Quite frankly, Coffs is built different.”

“As the only place in Australia where the Great Dividing Range touches the sea, we have a unique offering of nature experiences,” she said.

Explaining why certification was important, Ms Cowley said it “positions us as a world leader in sustainable tourism and links us with a global network of like-minded destinations all dedicated to best practice”.

Council’s general manager Natalia Cowley. Picture: Supplied

Coffs attractions include the Solitary Islands Coastal Walk four-day trek, tours led by Indigenous guides, a zip line experience through the treetops, eco-stays at Orara Valley, kayaking, diving, surfing and much more.

Across the globe, eco-tourism is one of the fastest growing visitor sectors, with many of those within the category considered likely to spend more and stay longer.

Eco-tourism Australia chief executive officer Elissa Keenan confirmed Coffs got the tick again following an audit.

Coffs Coast is increasingly popular among thrillseekers and those looking to immerse themselves in nature.

“Regular auditing ensures the destination remains compliant with its certification and provides an opportunity for continuous improvement to keep up to date with the latest global sustainability standards,” she said.

“The ongoing commitment from the City of Coffs Harbour to uphold these standards is to be commended and we are pleased to continue to support the region on its sustainability journey.”

Meanwhile, businesses have been coming on board as “eco-champions”. While only a few businesses were on board back in 2021, about 10 have now put their hand up.