Tourism leaders, business operators and destination specialists from across the Macarthur region gathered on Thursday 21 May at Australian PlantBank for the Macarthur Together Visitor Economy Event — a collaborative forum focused on shaping the future of tourism, hospitality and visitor experiences across the region.

Hosted as part of the Macarthur Together Visitor Economy Event, the gathering showcased the incredible potential of collaboration across Camden, Campbelltown and Wollondilly, highlighting how the region can work collectively to attract visitors, support local businesses and create unforgettable experiences.

The day began surrounded by the stunning architecture and natural beauty of the Australian Botanic Garden precinct, with attendees receiving insights into the future vision for the gardens through the Australian Botanic Garden Master Plan.
Next was the panel discussion, Growing a Connected Visitor Economy, facilitated by Dean Boone of West Journal. The conversation centred around practical and inspiring ideas about how the Macarthur region can position itself as one of Greater Sydney’s most exciting emerging destinations.

The panel featured an impressive lineup of tourism and destination experts including:
Natalie Godward, CEO NSW Tourism Association
Brent Hillbrink-Watson - Managing Director Greater Sydney Tours and Board Member of the Western Sydney Tourism Taskforce
Rachel Hammond - Director of Marketing, Partnerships & Experience, Botanic Gardens of Sydney
Tennille Campbell - Senior Coordinator, Journeys, Destination NSW

COLLABORATION IS THE FUTURE
A key message echoed throughout the morning — collaboration is the future. Visitors don’t experience council boundaries; they experience destinations. By working together across the region, local businesses, venues, tourism operators and community organisations can create a vibrant experience that encourages people to stay longer, explore further and return again.
The energy continued into the afternoon with a series of fast-paced networking sessions where business owners, tourism operators and creatives connected through rapid-fire discussions that encouraged collaboration and innovation across industries.

At the same time, conversations turned toward the growing importance of Macarthur’s after-dark economy. Facilitated by the team from the NSW 24-Hour Economy Commissioner, the roundtable explored how the region can continue developing safe, welcoming and exciting night-time experiences that support local business growth while enhancing community connection.

During this session, Camden Village proudly stepped into the spotlight with the first public preview of the highly anticipated SPINOUT event video from February’s festival. The showcase highlighted the energy, vibrancy and community spirit that continue to position Camden Village as one of the region’s most exciting destinations for events, entertainment and nightlife experiences.
Camden Village District Coordinator Melissa Musgrave was able to share some insights into working with the 24 Hour Economy on outcomes for local precincts.

As the Macarthur region continues to evolve, events like Macarthur Together are helping shape a future where collaboration, creativity and community pride work hand in hand — and Camden Village is proud to be part of the journey.