Innovation in providing on-demand information for visitors and local residents has seen City of Coffs Harbour Council named a finalist in the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards.
On the back of launching the Coffs Coast Explorer App and the installation of seven digital information kiosks across the Local Government Area, the Council has been short-listed in the Tourism, Hire and Services category.
“These innovative digital tools have significantly enhanced visitor engagement and access to local attractions, services, and information,” said Mayor, Nikki Williams.
“The Explorer App, with its intuitive design and comprehensive listings, has experienced a remarkable increase in user downloads, with nearly 6,000 to the end of April.
“Feedback to the app has been overwhelmingly positive.”
Destination North Coast, in partnership with the NSW Tourism Association, has revealed the finalists across 11 categories in this year’s awards.
The supreme winners will be announced at an awards ceremony and gala dinner at Byron Bay on 31 July.
The Coffs Coast Explorer App was launched at the All One Under the Sun Festival last year at the North Coast Regional Botanic Garden.
Created by the City and the Specialist Apps firm, the app provides an agile on-the-go on-demand guide for foodie and nature experiences, events, heritage trails and Indigenous stories.
The Council has also installed digital kiosks at The Clog Barn, Coffs Central, the Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary, Sawtell RSL, Woolgoolga Visitor Centre, Nana Glen Idle In Cafe and Ulong Cafe in the Valley.
“Complementary to the app, the strategically placed kiosks provide accessible touchpoints for information, booking assistance, and emergency services – further streamlining the visitor journey,” said Acting General Manager, Andrew Beswick.
“The kiosks and app have contributed to an estimated 10 per cent rise in extended visitor stays and a measurable boost in local economic activity.”
The Council is a finalist in a category which recognises businesses that sell/provide goods or hire services which contribute to the tourism industry. The contribution made to the tourism industry can be economical (eg retail, galleries), experience based (traditionally non-tourism specific experiences, eg shopping precincts) or service based (eg digital solutions for travellers or tourism businesses).
