2025 North Coast Tourism Symposium and Awards
On Wednesday 30 and Thursday 31 July 2025, we proudly co-hosted the North Coast Tourism Symposium and Awards with Destination North Coast.
Held across iconic local venues, the event welcomed tourism professionals, operators and government representatives to explore the theme: “Inspire! Shaping Tomorrow’s Visitor Economy.”
Photo credit: Possum Creek Studios
Event highlights
Speakers and sponsors were welcomed to the region with local hospitality and cabaret entertainment at the Brunswick Picture House.
The North Coast Tourism Symposium took place the following day at Byron Theatre, with over 200 attendees focusing on themes of leadership, sustainability, inclusivity and innovation. Mayor Sarah Ndiaye presented on Byron Shire's changing relationship with tourism over time and joined for a panel discussion on sustainable destination success.
The evening flowed into the North Coast Tourism Awards at Elements at Byron. The gala celebrated excellence in North Coast NSW tourism, with Byron Shire operators receiving multiple awards:
- Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens – Gold, Tourist Attractions
- First Sun Holiday Park – Gold, Caravan and Holiday Parks
- Let’s Go Surfing – Silver, Adventure Tourism
- Cape Byron Kayaks – Bronze, Adventure Tourism
- Bluesfest Byron Bay – Inducted into the Hall of Fame
These winners now automatically progress to the NSW State Tourism Awards, representing Byron Shire at the next level.
For more information and images of this year's even in Byron Bay and others elsewhere in the North Coast, see the Destination North Coast website