Byron Bay Takes Silver as 2024’s Second Most-Visited Destination for Coach Travellers

By Robert Heyward

Byron Bay has climbed the ranks to become the second most-visited destination in Australia for coach travellers in 2024, moving up one spot from last year. This achievement highlights the growing allure of the iconic coastal hotspot, which continues to captivate both domestic and international visitors.

Greyhound Australia’s Contribution

Australia’s leading long-distance coach company, Greyhound Australia, revealed that over 50,000 passengers are expected to disembark at Byron Bay by the end of the year. With seven daily services arriving at the Byron Bay Interchange, these visitors contribute an estimated $14.5 million annually to the local economy.

One full Greyhound busload spends approximately $6,000 per night in Byron Bay, showcasing the significant economic boost tourism provides to the region.

A Backpacker Favorite

Backpackers make up 63% of Greyhound’s passengers arriving in Byron Bay, primarily using travel passes that allow them to explore Australia’s top destinations. Greyhound’s marketing and communications manager, Michael Leard, emphasised the town’s appeal:

“We are thrilled to announce that Byron has claimed silver as the second most-visited destination for Greyhound Australia passengers in 2024. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of the local tourism industry as we build back after Covid.”

With the return of international tourists, Byron Bay is gearing up for a bustling summer season as the town reclaims its spot on travellers’ itineraries.

Local Benefits

Beyond tourism, Greyhound’s frequent services benefit Byron Bay locals by providing affordable, reliable transport for commuting, family visits, medical appointments, and other travel needs.

National Rankings

Byron Bay trails only Brisbane in Greyhound’s Top 10 Most-Visited Destinations for 2024. Queensland dominates the list, with popular spots like Airlie Beach, Townsville, and Noosa rounding out the rankings.

Greyhound Australia’s Top 10 Most-Visited Destinations in 2024

1. Brisbane
2. Byron Bay ↑1
3. Townsville ↓1
4. Airlie Beach
5. Noosa
6. Surfers Paradise ↑1
7. Cairns ↓1
8. Sydney
9. Toowoomba
10. Rainbow Beach

For backpackers, Byron Bay also secured third place, while it ranked third for ticket holders, underscoring its broad appeal across different traveller segments.

For more information on visiting Byron Bay and Greyhound’s travel options, visit greyhound.com.au.

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$28 Million Emergency Services Precinct Coming to Byron Bay

By Robert Heyward

A new state-of-the-art $28 million emergency services precinct will be built in Byron Bay’s Sandhills Estate, bringing NSW Police and Fire and Rescue NSW together under one roof to better serve the region’s growing community.

The centrally located precinct will span 6,500 square meters of Crown land on Gilmore Crescent, adjacent to Byron Bay’s CBD. Designed with flood resilience and sustainability in mind, the facility will feature modern operational spaces and staff amenities to enhance emergency response capabilities.

Construction to Begin in 2026

Planning for the precinct is already underway, with construction expected to begin in early 2026 following planning approvals. As part of the development, Byron Shire Council will extend Tennyson Street to connect with Gilmore Crescent, ensuring efficient vehicle access and rapid emergency response times across the area.

The project is part of a collaborative agreement between Crown Lands, the NSW Aboriginal Land Council, and the Tweed Byron Local Aboriginal Land Council, which has resolved outstanding Aboriginal land claims on the site through Aboriginal Land Agreements (ALAs).

Strengthening Byron Bay’s Emergency Services

The precinct will provide a significant boost to local emergency services.

Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said the collaboration between NSW Police and Fire & Rescue will strengthen their ability to serve the Byron Bay community.

“This new facility will provide our emergency services with the resources and infrastructure they need to ensure community safety. We’re committed to supporting our police and emergency services like never before.”

Minister for Emergency Services Jihad Dib highlighted the government’s $8.2 million commitment in this year’s budget to replace Byron Bay’s nearly 50-year-old fire station.

“This modern facility will enhance firefighters’ ability to serve the community with better amenities, improved training spaces, and adherence to our ‘Clean Fire Fighter’ policy.”

Community-Focused Outcomes

The precinct’s development exemplifies the Minns Labor Government’s focus on delivering community benefits through sustainable use of Crown land.

Minister for Lands and Property Steve Kamper praised the collaborative effort.

“This project represents an alignment of critical emergency services, Aboriginal outcomes, and community infrastructure. It’s a great example of working together to prioritise community needs.”

Enhancing Capabilities for the Future

The new precinct will enable emergency services to respond more effectively to the needs of both locals and visitors.

NSW Police Commissioner Karen Webb APM said “This centralised, modern facility will enhance our operational capacity, enabling faster responses and more effective crime prevention strategies.”

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell AFSM added “With advanced tools, enhanced training spaces, and future-ready design, this precinct equips our firefighters to protect and serve the community for years to come.”

This milestone project promises to bolster emergency services while respecting cultural and environmental priorities, ensuring a safer and more resilient Byron Bay.

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Justine Elliot Secures Over $3.5 Million for Byron Bay’s St Andrew’s Village

By Robert Heyward

Local Labor MP Justine Elliot has announced a significant boost for St Andrew’s Village (George’s Cottages) in Byron Bay, with the Albanese Labor Government providing $3,595,733 in funding. The investment will support essential upgrades, including redesigning 40 ensuites, addressing drainage and external repairs, and enhancing care for homeless residents.

The funding is part of Round 2 of the Albanese Government’s Aged Care Capital Assistance Program (ACCAP), aimed at modernizing aged care facilities operated by not-for-profit and small community-based providers. The initiative also focuses on generating employment opportunities within regional communities.

“This $3.5 million funding is fantastic news for our North Coast community,” said Ms. Elliot. “It highlights our government’s commitment to ensuring Australian seniors have access to high-quality aged care services.”

The upgrades at St Andrew’s Village will create a more home-like environment, with modern amenities and comfortable living spaces, benefitting both residents and staff. The project is a step forward in delivering specialist care services in regional areas, a priority of the Albanese Government’s aged care reforms.

A Lifeline for Byron Bay’s Aged Care Sector

The announcement comes after a challenging period for Byron Bay’s aged care community. Following the closure of Feros Care’s Byron Bay Village in 2023, federal and state Labor governments worked closely with the community to secure St Andrew’s as the new provider for the site.

“A year on, I’m proud to deliver this significant funding to ensure St Andrew’s Village can continue providing the very best care and support for our local seniors,” Ms. Elliot said.

Historic Aged Care Reforms

The Albanese Government has made aged care a key priority, recently committing an additional $300 million to the ACCAP over three years. The investment forms part of broader reforms designed to improve facilities, support workers, and ensure dignity and quality care for older Australians.

For more information about the ACCAP grants and projects, visit here.

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