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Council project in the spotlight

A MURRAY River Council (MRC) project that reimagined the Echuca Moama region has been put in the spotlight after winning bronze in the 2021 NSW Tourism Awards.

Moama Lights event took home the title in the festivals and events category.

The NSW Tourism Awards presentation was held virtually on February 3, celebrating excellence and innovation across the NSW tourism sector.

The festivals and events category recognises leisure festivals, events and exhibitions that enhance the profile and appeal of local destinations as well as creating economic impact, increased visitation and community involvement.

Moama Lights received the bronze recognition for the positive effects it had on visitation and activity in the Echuca Moama region.

MRC mayor Chris Bilkey said the recognition was a fantastic achievement for council and a nod to the hard work of council staff, partners and local volunteers.

“Some six months in the making, our staff presented this spectacular event which not only shone a light on our beautiful bush setting, but also shone a light on the story of our twin towns,” he said.

“The bronze award is a fantastic effort and just goes to show our team have created something that will have lasting value to the community and will enhance visitation, spend and overnight stays; just what we should be aiming for across the region.”

Moama Lights will be back again in 2022, running from July 31 until August.21

Murray Regional Tourism Board chair Wendy Greiner said the result was a testament to the high-quality tourism experiences on offer across the Murray region.

“These results are further recognition for our extremely successful region and acknowledges the expertise and effort of Murray Regional Tourism that goes into supporting the industry to ensure it strives for excellence,” Ms Greiner said.

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