October 29, 2009: Bega Valley Shire Council resolved this week to provide up to $120,000 to Sapphire Coast Tourism this financial year in response to a request from the SCT board for urgent assistance.

This follows a decision earlier this year by Local Government Minister Barbara Perry to reject a special rate levy to fund tourism and economic development in the shire.

Council also authorised General Manager Peter Tegart to enter into negotiations with the SCT board regarding the terms and licensing of operations at Bermagui, Eden and Merimbula visitor information centres from July 2010, including the terms for their operation.

The Merimbula VIC will retain its Level 1 status and the VICs in Bermagui, Bega and Eden will remain at Level 2 and 3 depending on current accreditation to retain their status for grant funding purposes.

Non-accredited visitor information centres, such as those at Tathra and Cobargo that are managed by their local chamber of commerce or tourist association, receive no Council funding.

The SCT board will be required to report to Council quarterly on budgets and progress with strategic initiatives and Council will review its funding position for SCT and the VICs in conjunction with the 2010-2011 budget.

Council will also move to divest itself or the SCT board of any interests in the Sapphire Coast Booking System.

Eden Chamber of Commerce will receive $2,200 to fund a shuttle bus for them Eden cruise ship program.

Councillors reiterated their commitment to investing in economic and tourism development and to progressive investments and advocacy in tourism-based signage, recreation and cultural facilities, including continuing support through the provision of premises for accredited visitor information centres.

They also reiterated a commitment to leadership in redevelopment of the Eden Seaport and Merimbula Airport.