Northern Rivers popularity predicted to soar

By Sarah Waters

Close to 900,000 commercial passengers are predicted to pass through Ballina Byron Gateway Airport each year by 2040, as the Northern Rivers region continues to be a popular drawcard for tourism, business opportunities and liveability.

On March 7, Ballina Byron Gateway Airport officially opened its $20.68 million runway upgrade.

Since covid, there has been a huge increase in the number of flights in and out of the airport.

Airport manager Julie Stewart said currently about 635,000 commercial passengers come through the busy regional airport each year, but these numbers are predicted to soar in the next 15 years.

“Our airport is a key gateway for visitors to the beautiful Northern Rivers region, but the airport is also essential to support emergency service aircraft during regional disasters,” Ms Steward said.

Population growth, post-COVID migration to regional areas and increased remote work flexibility have driven interest in the region.

Tourism has been fuelled by the popularity of the coastal areas, with the famed beaches, hinterlands and major music festivals.

According to the Northern Rivers Regional Economic Development Strategy - 2023 Update, tourism remained a key source of economic output and major employment in the region.

Spending by visitors in the region was $1.2 billion in 2021, despite significant impacts from natural disasters and the COVID-19 pandemic.

Improvements to visitor accessibility to the region through investment in key transport infrastructure such as the airport, was flagged as an opportunity to support ongoing growth in the sector.

Ballina Shire Mayor Sharon Cadwallader said the investment in the airport, was an investment in the community and its economy.

“The runway upgrade will ensure the community have continued reliable and safe air services into the future for local tourism and business, while also providing aviation jobs and career opportunities for local residents,” she said.

Ms Cadwallader said the Ballina Shire alone was an attractive residential and commuter hub.

“The region’s Visiting Friends and Relatives (VFR) market, noted by Tourism Research Australia, stands as Ballina’s second-largest market source, further boosting airport traffic as local residents host visitors.

“The region has seen significant public and private investment in tourism-related products, further enhancing its appeal.

“Ballina Coast and Hinterland, though lesser known than Byron Bay, offers a rich visitor experience, striking a balance between coastal charm and a dynamic community.

“As a gateway to the Northern Rivers, Ballina, in particular, offers a relaxed pace, ample amenities and a vibrant community,” she said.

According to Economy. Id, tourism is a significant economic driver in the Ballina Shire, employing 1681 people and contributing $257.4 million to the local economy in the 21/22 period.

The forecasted growth in the region is based on historical patterns since the airport’s construction in the mid-1980s.

Ballina Byron Gateway

Airport serves not only

Ballina and Byron but also broader catchment areas, including southern Queensland and regions west and south of the Northern Rivers.

The increased flights experienced during/ following Covid border closures heightened awareness of the airport among neighbouring regional communities.

The Ballina Tourism Team recently unveiled the new Ballina Coast and Hinterland Visitor Guide, which highlights the region’s unmissable experiences.

The publication was made in collaboration with more than 45 local businesses.

Through a series of captivating imagery, insightful editorials and essential information, it encourages visitors to explore the region and discover the unique experiences on offer.