Destination Port Stephens will host the inaugural Australian Regional Tourism Convention from October 20-23, 2014.

The four-day event will take place at the Ramada Shoal Bay Resort in Port Stephens, will attract 160 tourism industry representatives from around Australia and is expected to boost the local economy by $240,000.

Delegates will also be sent on pre and post-familiarisation trips to Newcastle, Singleton or the Central Coast to learn about tourism programs in those areas.

Destination Port Stephens manager Janelle Gardner said,“The beauty of Port Stephens will provide a spectacular backdrop to the conference and we look forward to sharing our backyard with delegates from across the country.”

Australian Regional Tourism Network chairman Steve Rosa said,“Delegates at the conference will gain research, information and expert advice on how to grow their businesses and they can also network with key players in the industry. We invite regional tourism operators from across Australia to join us at this important event.”

Sponsors of the 2014 Australian Regional Tourism Convention include Destination Port Stephens, Destination NSW, Newcastle Council, Central Coast Tourism, Newcastle Airport, Virgin Australia, Singleton Council and MyTravelResearch.com, Star Ratings Australia and Sepia Consulting.