Surf life Saving’s pinnacle event – The Aussies – is set to return to the Sunshine Coast in 2021 in what will be a massive coup for the region.
The magnitude of the event is significant, with more than 7,000 competitors and 20,000 spectators expected to attend across the nine-day carnival.
That’s 20,000 people looking to stay at accommodation, eat out at restaurants and make the most of their time on the Sunshine Coast by exploring the region’s attractions.
The timing of the event is perfect as it will follow on from the April school holidays, extending what is already a bumper time for tourism.
The 2021 Aussies will be jointly hosted by Alexandra Headland, Maroochydore and Mooloolaba Surf Life Saving Clubs and is supported by Sunshine Coast Council and Tourism and Events Queensland.
The Aussies is a perfect fit for our region as it embodies the Sunshine Coast’s beachside culture and showcases our ability to host exhilarating sporting events.
But one of the great things about the Sunshine Coast is its diversity and ability to cater to multiple markets and travellers.
This week it was announced the inaugural Art of Attraction tourism summit will be held on the Sunshine Coast this November, and Visit Sunshine Coast is proud to be a funding partner.
The summit will focus on the theme of ‘Driving Change’ and will conclude with an awards evening announcing the winners of the Australian Street Art Awards and Grey Nomad Awards.
While cities like Melbourne are known for their street art, the Sunshine Coast has its own burgeoning street art scene.
You just need to know where to look.
Caloundra is home to a street art trail that includes a colourful mural on Dingle Avenue that captures the town’s cultural identity and history and a mural of Caloundra’s oldest lighthouse in Lamkin Lane.
The new building on Maroochydore Road has also given a nod to the region’s past with a mural of the last 1920’s Queenslander located on Duporth Ave painted on the side of the building.
The Art of Attraction Summit will focus on how we can use public art to attract visitors and attending delegates will also learn what motivates mature-age visitors and how to meet their expectations.
Both markets are an incredibly important part of the tourism mix, and as a destination, its crucial we continue to create awareness of our region’s diverse offerings.
