The Food and Wine Tourism in New South Wales report, commissioned in conjunction with the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, found visitors are becoming increasingly knowledgeable about food and wine and are seeking authentic experiences.

NSW Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Major Events Troy Grant and Minister for Regional Tourism John Barilaro said the NSW Government had showcased quality food and wine experiences across the State in concerted promotions and campaigns during 2014.

‘We leveraged Tourism Australia’s ‘Restaurant Australia’ campaign, while developing innovative publications, digital marketing campaigns, industry partnerships and promotional activities,’ Mr Grant said.

‘Our efforts have helped promote the many producers, restaurants and wineries that make NSW Australia’s number one food and wine destination.

‘The TRA report confirms the Hunter Valley as the most visited food and wine destination in NSW, receiving 39 per cent of visitors. The Blue Mountains, Mudgee and Southern Highlands were also some of the most highly visited regions.

‘Developing and promoting the sector remains a key focus for the NSW Government. In the year ended September 2014, overnight and day trip wine tourism visitors spent $1.9 billion, contributing significantly to the State’s visitor economy.’

Mr Barilaro said visitors to NSW were spoilt for choice when it came to food and wine experiences.

‘Our regions provide the best seafood, wonderful beef, lamb, pork and venison, great fruit and vegetables and welcoming cellar doors. They not only stock our local restaurants, but support the hospitality industry across the State,’ Mr Barilaro said.

‘Of those surveyed for the TRA report, 91 per cent were satisfied or extremely satisfied with the quality of NSW wines, 89 per cent were satisfied or extremely satisfied with NSW food products and 88 per cent with customer service at cellar doors.

‘Orange, Mudgee and the Hunter Valley were rated highest in overall satisfaction with food and wine experiences in NSW.’

To download a copy of the report, visit: www.tra.gov.au

Download a PDF version of this media release (PDF 44kb)