Welcome to 2010.
This is poised to be a big year for Ballina Tourism and Hosptality with lots happening.
More about this in upcoming postcards.
For now, let us look at the last holiday season.
We would really like your feedback so please email or contact us at secretary@ballinatourism.com.au
From antedotal evedince so far it appears that there were mixed results but overall a successful holiday season.
Some Ballina attraction members said trade was up and others with trade remaining consistent.
Seemed to be lots of people around, especially during the early stages of the period but not as much spent.
Could this be an indication of the economy.
Maybe even though last year was awash, people had some of that stimulus money left over from purchasing those wide screens and this was spent on their holidays.
The caravan parks appeared to be full, but motels and homestays were up and down. Except over the Christmas New Year when bookings were very solid!.
Our websites reported a very good site reports with over 7500 visitations during January alone.
Some things to do this weekend.
Rivers of Life Exhibition at Northern Rivers Community Gallery
Go and see the Rivers of Life an exhibition featuring the work of 36 leading Northern Rivers' artists .
This is your chance to see these artists exhibit in their local gallery. Many have not exhibited locally for quite a while as they have been busy with national and international shows.
This was an invitation only exhibition so the quality is high. A Northern Rivers BLOCKBUSTER.
And it is free. Do not forget to vote for the People's Choice Award.
Westpac Bank is sponsoring this People’s Choice Award which is an opportunity for you to vote for the art work you most connect with. The winning artist will be presented with their prize money at the conclusion of the exhibition. Rivers of Life exhibition will run from Wednesday 20 January until Sunday 21 February 2010.
I had a great time at the opening browsing the paintings whilst listening to live music and even an opera interlude. Yep in Ballina!
Speaking of free,
Want something to do on Saturday night. For you and your family??
Cinema Under the Stars
Newcastle Permanent is presenting Night at the Museam 2 at Seagulls Rugby League Grounds. (I remember watching Bob Dylan here, great location and atmosphere!)
Saturday 13th of February 2010 - Night at the Museum 2
ENTRY IS FREE
Gates open at 6:30pm and screening starts at sundown and remember to BYO picnic and picnic rug (low chairs only please)
Food and drinks available to buy
More info from www.newcastlepermanent.com.au/cinema
And now for some BIG NEWS.
As of now we are offering half price membership for those who are not members yet.
So email me and ask for a membership form. secretary@ballinatourism.com.au
Cheers Dave