Destination Sydney Surrounds South is excited to be hosting the Visitor Economy Symposium again in 2026!

Our Visitor Economy Symposium is back, and this year, we’ve raised the bar.

As our industry works to deliver the ambitions of the NSW Visitor Economy Strategy 2035, one thing is clear: success depends on how effectively we share knowledge, build capability, and work together. This year’s Symposium is designed to do exactly that: bringing practical insights, real-world examples, and genuine collaboration into one room, for one powerful day.

By coming together to learn, connect, and share ideas, we’ll help ensure our region is well placed to grow a strong, sustainable, and competitive visitor economy. This is strategy becoming action.

Yes, there’s a ticket price this year, and here’s why it’s worth it:

We’ve invested in building the best program we’ve ever delivered, designed to provide practical insights, meaningful connections, and real opportunities for your business and we know you’ll agree.

For $30 per person, you’ll get:

• A highly regarded industry expert as MC – Felicia Mariani, a proven facilitator who deeply understands the visitor economy.
• Inspiration from one of Australia’s most successful tourism operators – Rob Pennicott, Pennicott Wilderness Journeys will share how he took his business to the global stage, and the practical lessons that helped him get there.
• Hear from Karen Jones, CEO DNSW on the progress and priorities of the Visitor Economy Strategy 2035.
• How to get the most out of your Destination Network – Shannan Perry-Hall, GM DSSS will share ways to collaborate and leverage upcoming initiatives.
• A practical panel on telling your story – led by Coralie McCarthy, CEO Business Illawarra with industry and media experts, delivered in partnership with Business Illawarra.
• A practical session with Despina Karatzias, Institute of Excellence on how collaborating with complementary businesses can grow revenue and create stronger visitor experiences, without discounting.
• Expert-led breakout sessions to choose from, focused on the issues that matter most to your business.
• A full day of networking with industry peers, leaders, and potential collaborators over great food in a fantastic location.

Bringing a colleague? Register two or more, and everyone pays just $20 per person. Use code ‘BRINGAFRIEND‘ at checkout.

More details and full program coming soon!