Dubbo Mayor Allan Smith today advised that Council had missed out on obtaining the Local Government Association (LGA) Conference in Dubbo in 2011 despite a “brilliant” campaign.
The 600 delegates to this year’s conference in Tamworth voted for Shoalhaven to host the event in two years time.
Cr Allan Smith said the Dubbo councillors and staff did an excellent job of promoting the City but Shoalhaven won out on the day.
“I would like to congratulate everyone involved in our bid, it was an excellent effort and we received very positive feedback, so much so that we may try again,” Cr Smith said.
“Our stand was very popular with hundreds of council executives from across NSW, and the entertainment and the Dubby pies gave us a point of difference.”
The bid, which was titled 'Come Dance With Me In Dubbo In 2011’ included an appearance by Charlie Bartley whose reality television debut this year saw him gain Australia-wide exposure.
Cr Smith said he was very pleased with the campaign, which was prepared by Council’s City Image Branch and had the support of an online marketing campaign.
“The bid was an exciting reflection of our City and as well as showcasing attractions such as Old Dubbo Gaol, Taronga Western Plains Zoo and our Indigenous heritage it impressed the LGA delegates that Dubbo was a great place to be,” he said.
Cr Smith described the in-house bid to attract the 2011 conference as very worthwhile and cost effective.
“It had the possibility of attracting big money to the City if we were successful, so it was more than justified,” he said.
MEDIA CONTACT: For further information, please contact Dubbo Mayor Cr Allan Smith on 0418 639 053.