Local tourism is buzzing
Tourism staff members have been incredibly busy lately.
FROM a tourism point of view, the last three months have been incredibly busy on the South Coast, according to Ugu South Coast Tourism chief executive Justin Mackrory.
“In one weekend alone the tourism team attended and contributed to five events. By the end of July we will have supported and participated in 22 events in two months,” he said.
According to his recent newsletter, the recent international adventure race, Expedition Africa, was professionally run and was a great success. Held in the Port Edward area, it certainly put the South Coast on the map.
Another successful event was the well-attended launch of the Sardine Festival and Southern Explorer winter edition, at Botha House. The Sardine Festival, comprising the recent Ugu Jazz Festival and all sorts of holiday events, is now under way.
“In another exciting development, Ugu South Coast Tourism has signed an memorandum of understanding with the South Coast Development Agency. This partnership could certainly see a growth in tourism over the years,” said Mr Mackrory.
The tourism association has recently taken the opportunity of introducing the South Coast to many potential visitors at a number of trade shows. And tourism in this area was looking up in more than one way. The Margate Winter Air show attracted many visitors. Other aviation news is that CemAir has increased its number of direct flights between Margate and OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg. Daily flights are now available.
In recent months the tourism association has hosted an international journalist from Sud Africa magazine and the chief executive of the newly formed KwaZulu-Natal Film Commission, Carol Coetzee. The SABC will film six of 13 episodes of ‘Dating Show’ on the South Coast. Reporters from a number of publications are keeping an eye on the sardine situation and a group of tour operators and travel agents guides recently visited this area. A television crew from the Good Morning Africa Show will be filming on the South Coast this month.
Finally, good news from development general manager Bukeka Zwezwe is that tourism is supporting local crafters, artists and musicians by providing them with opportunities to showcase their goods and to earn much-needed incomes.
Their talents were on display at Africa Bike Week, the Lions’ Outdoor and Leisure Expo and the Margate Winter Air Show. Anyone who would like to make use of local musicians at functions should contact Ugu South Coast Tourism. Email Bukeka on development@tourismsouthcoast.co.za.
