Tourism News

Singleton’s commitment to the Coast
Sydney businessman, John Singleton, has invested more than $16 million buying and refurbishing two iconic Central Coast tourism properties in the Killcare area. Bells at Killcare is geared towards those within the local community, Sydney-siders, domestic and international travellers, whilst Pretty Beach House is marketed to discerning domestic and international travelers, as well as high profile guests.

Mr Singleton bought the first of these two Central Coast properties in 2006. He invested millions into the refurbishment of Bells at Killcare, developing it for an entirely new market. The property is now operated by Karina and Brian Barry and based around celebrated chef Stefano Manfredi’s authentic Italian restaurant – the only one on the Central Coast with a hatted rating. It offers eleven coastal-style suites and villas set in 8.5 acres of manicured gardens.

Mr Singleton bought the second property, Headlands Guest House, last year and invested heavily into its refurbishment. Pretty Beach House, as it is now known, offers a new style of luxury. With only three one-bedroom pavilions on the 7.5 acre property, guests are offered a personalised experience with around-the-clock service. All meals, premium wines, champagnes and spirits are included as part of the hospitality, with food designed and prepared under the direction of Stefano Manfredi. All inclusive tariffs at this exclusive property are $2,500 per night per couple.

Hale moves to new job
Central Coast Tourism Inc. (CCTI) Chairman, Peter Hale, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of the newly formed NSW Forum of Regional Tourism Organisations (FORTO) Inc. As a result, he has resigned as Chairman after seventeen years at the helm of the organisation following this appointment.

“There is no doubt that it has been an honour to have served the membership and to have worked with the staff of CCTI who have created what is accepted as the leading tourism organisation in NSW and one of the most successful in Australia,” said Mr Hale. He added that in his new role he will continue to work with CCTI, along with the other twelve Regional Tourism Organisations in NSW to drive the State Government’s new $5 million investment in regional tourism.

Barton Lawler, Deputy Chairman of CCTI, has taken over as Acting Chairman until the next annual meeting in December. Mr Lawler thanked Mr Hale for his long term contribution and achievements for Central Coast Tourism and in particular the break-through he has managed on behalf of all twelve tourism regions to gain additional funding from the NSW State Government.

“In the case of Central Coast Tourism, this means $690,000 per year over the next three years for marketing,” said Mr Lawler. “This regional funding agreement provides the NSW regions, for the first time in history, with sufficient marketing dollars to attract more business to regional NSW,” he said.

Back Send us your comments