Councillors will vote on the preferred tourism ‘destination name’ for the geographic area covered by MidCoast Council at Wednesday’s July 25 monthly ordinary meeting in Taree.
Of the five options put forward, Barrington Coast appears to be the favoured moniker according to council’s meeting agenda.
The move is part of council’s Destination Management Plan where a suitable label will be chosen to represent the entire region.
According to destination management co-ordinator, Sharon Bultitude, Barrington Coast is a unique identifier that no other destination in Australia can own or use.
It is inclusive of the entire region by providing coverage on both an east-west and north-south axis, Ms Bultitude reported.
“Furthermore, it recognises and acknowledges the Aboriginal story of the place, where the leaves touch the waters from the mountains to the sea.”
Also on the table are Nature’s Coast, Adventure Coast and Lakes Coast.
Councillors Brad Christensen and Katheryn Smith sought public feedback through Facebook on Friday, July 20.
Cr Christensen’s post on Facebook group ‘You’re From Taree If...’ certainly riled up the community.
After one hour, he’d received dozens of responses.
Many stated that having Barrington in the name would take away from the Manning and Great Lakes.
“Barrington Coast, is just confusing,” Todd Wiseman posted.
“To be Australia’s Adventure Coast, we would need a lot more adventure like activity to be established.”
Some argued promotion and advertisement of the brand would be a waste of council’s resources and cause confusion.
“Too many ‘branding’ names just makes for more confusion for tourists,” Faye Kohlhagen wrote.
“Why can’t we keep Manning Valley, Barrington Tops and Great Lakes localised for our tourism,” Linda Page asked?
“Each area is different for tourism.
“We can still support all three areas without re-branding.”
The vote will take place at the council monthly meeting on Wednesday, July 25 meeting in Taree.
