Parramatta. Events boost city and tourism

Parramatta City Council places great store in events helping to raise the profile of the city while contributing tourists’ dollars into the local economy. On October 11, Deepavali Fair, the Indian Festival of Lights will be held at the Parramatta Stadium for the first time. Last year it attracted 20,000 to Sydney Olympic Park; 25,000 are expected. The Loy Krathong Thai water festival will be held on October 31, as part of the Riverbeats 2009 event. 2009 Supercross Australasian Championships will be held at the stadium on November 11. Over 15,000 people attended the event last year and promoters expect attendance of 18,500 this year. The event is expected to contribute $1.3 million to the economy. The gross revenue generated by businesses and organisations in Parramatta to service demand generated by tourists to the area is estimated at $830 million, with the city’s hospitality sector contributing $138 million. Council will soon establish a dedicated website to showcase its attractions and boost visitation