The Regional Economic Development Team recently hosted international delegates from 13 countries on the South Coast of New South Wales. Representatives from Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Poland, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom embarked on a three-day journey to discover the region's emerging industries, which offer opportunities for investment, trade, and industry development.
Starting in Sydney, the itinerary took delegates to Nowra, Huskisson, Batemans Bay, Moruya, Broulee, Bega, Merimbula, and Eden. Along the way, they engaged with local industry leaders, including the Alkath Group, Bega Cheese, Broulee Brewery, Australia’s Oyster Coast, and Sea Urchin Harvest.
A highlight of the mission was the launch of the NSW Seaweed Prospectus. The prospectus outlines significant opportunities for investors to tap into the rapidly growing seaweed industry in NSW. The launch, hosted at PhycoHealth—one of the state’s leading aquaculture ventures—included a facility tour and a grazing lunch featuring a variety of dishes made using Phyco’s seaweed products.
The official welcome Dinner at Bateman’s Bay on the first evening gave local businesses and stakeholders the opportunity to network and establish connections with delegates from relevant markets/countries. On the second evening guest speaker and Chair of the Bega Group, Barry Irwin, outlined the amazing vision to make the Bega Valley the first fully circular region in Australia!
Beyond business, the mission immersed attendees in the South Coast’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Delegates visited Killalea Regional Park and Jigamy Farm and Snug Cove to experience the region’s rich Aboriginal history and stunning landscapes.
This trade mission, part of the NSW Government’s Regional Investment Activation Program, successfully demonstrated the state’s commitment to driving growth, creating jobs, and attracting investment in regional areas. By showcasing the innovation and potential of South Coast businesses, the event highlighted the region’s role as a key player in the global marketplace.