The first ever Harvest Festival for the Central Coast has been hailed as a success by Council with over 10,000 people attending the two day festival.

The Festival celebrated local produce on the Coast with 23 events planned for the Long Weekend across the Calga, Somersby, Peats Ridge, Mangrove Mountain, Kulnura and Yarramalong areas.

Council Group Leader Connected Communities, Ms Julie Vaughan, said the wet weather did not deter the crowds and only four events needed to be cancelled.

“It was pleasing to see so many locals and visitors embrace the opportunity to see another side of what the Central Coast has to offer – which is great local produce on a stunning mountain backdrop,” Ms Vaughan said.

“It showed there is more to the Coast than just our beaches and waterways. Our local farmers and entrepreneurs revelled in the experience of showcasing their wares to the world.”

Council utilised this Festival as an opportunity to build local capacity, demonstrating the potential for a unified approach to event partnerships which develop significant social and economic impacts for the region.

Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds, said the Festival highlighted the importance of event tourism to the Central Coast region in what will clearly become an annual event.

“Tourism is a huge economic driver on the Coast, delivering over $900 million a year into the local economy,” Mr Reynolds said.

“Council is increasing its investment in tourism marketing and directly into key events such as the Harvest Festival, to ensure the Central Coast is a destination of choice all year round.”

Council is currently working with local stakeholders to build on the success of the Harvest Festival and get a regional Harvest Trail in place.