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A new survey shines the spotlight on what visitors think of their Coffs Coast holidays, and what the local tourism industry can do to make their holidays even better.

The Coffs Coast Visitor Profile and Satisfaction Report provides an opportunity for businesses to hone their products and services given the results show the Coffs Coast rates below the national benchmark.

Introducing the findings Federal Minister for Tourism, Martin Ferguson explained "the Coffs Coast is a sought after holiday location - particularly for domestic visitors. Tourism is an important economic driver injecting $2.2 billion into the Coffs Coast community and supports more than 8,600 businesses.

"Visitors are more likely to provide honest answers in an independent survey than to complain or give positive feedback directly to a business (so) that's why the Coffs Coast Visitor Profile and Satisfaction Report is so valuable.

"Visitors confirmed in the Report that they are seeking something for the kids, good food and wine, good shopping and most of all they come to the Coffs Coast to relax and rejuvenate. Businesses then, need to size up their offering against these results.

Senator Michael Forshaw added "poor weather during school holidays impacted on visitors overall experience (while) perceived Christmas holiday price increases, the cost of attractions (aside from the Pet Porpoise Pool) and the price of staying in what was perceived as below standard properties were among visitors' concerns.

"The report offers pointers for improvement. A focus on marketing surrounding regions such as Sawtell and Bellingen and further investment in the history, heritage, art and culture in the region is considered to give the region a more competitive edge."

The majority of those surveyed were regular visitors to the Coffs Coast, choosing the region as a great place for a family holiday. However, slightly less than half those surveyed said they were "very satisfied" with their visit to the region (48%). The national benchmark is 51%.

Visitors who stayed in a caravan park or commercial camping ground (57% very satisfied) were more satisfied than those who stayed in hotels or motels (36% very satisfied).

The full Coffs Coast Visitor Profile and Satisfaction Report can be viewed at www.ret.gov.au/tra

13th February 2009 - MINILAB FOR COFFS HARBOUR PET PORPOISE POOL

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