Five major local government areas across New South Wales’ South Coast and the Southern Highlands have joined forces to launch Go Grand — a coordinated regional tourism campaign designed to boost visitation during the winter months and support local tourism operators across the Grand Pacific Drive.
Running from late May through to August 2025, the Go Grand in the South Coast and Southern Highlands – Winter 2025 campaign brings together the Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Wollongong, Shellharbour, Kiama, Shoalhaven, and the Southern Highlands. The campaign promotes seasonal travel under four key themes: Grand Experiences, Grand Flavours, Grand Nature, and Grand Stays, providing a structured approach to showcasing the depth and diversity of tourism offerings across the region.
Shannan Perry-Hall, GM, Destination Sydney Surrounds South, Spokesperson for Go Grand said, “The Go Grand initiative is a landmark example of regional collaboration, positioning the South Coast and Southern Highlands as NSW’s premier winter road trip destination.”
“Go Grand is a celebration of seasonal luxury and connection. By bringing together five remarkable LGAs under the Grand Pacific Drive banner, we’re not just promoting individual destinations — we’re presenting a unified vision for winter travel that appeals to nature-lovers, gourmands, culture seekers and weekenders alike.”
The joint initiative was developed to strengthen regional tourism through collaboration. By working together under the established touring route of the Grand Pacific Drive, Destination Sydney Surrounds South and the LGAs are able to pool resources, align messaging, and drive greater levels of visitation than through individual campaigns. For travellers, it offers a connected and easily navigable itinerary with a clear call to action — plan a winter getaway through some of NSW’s most picturesque and experience-rich destinations.
The campaign taps into growing demand for regional travel, immersive experiences and nature-based activities. During the crisp days and cooler nights of winter, the South Coast and Southern Highlands comes alive with truffle hunting, cosy fireplaces, whale watching and bushwalking plus plenty of hearty culinary experiences, cellar doors and distilleries to keep you warm.
- Grand Experiences: From sunrise whale-watching cruises and art trails to pottery studios, skydives and distillery tours — this is a choose-your-own-adventure made for the senses.
- Grand Flavours: Paddock-to-plate feasts at Bangalay Dining, fireside long lunches at Bistro Sociale, tastings at Crooked River Estate and small-batch pours from Tara Distillery or Artemis Wines.
- Grand Nature: Think rainforest walks, dramatic clifftop lookouts and misty valleys. Highlights include the White Sands Walk, Bass Point Reserve, Fitzroy Falls and the Wodi Wodi Track.
- Grand Stays: Luxury coastal getaways, converted barns, boutique vineyard retreats and cosy cottages. Many with fireplaces. All with views, and epic views.
Win a Grand Getaway!
They have curated three special prize packs (Grand Experience, Grand Nature, and Grand Flavours), and all website subscribers will be entered into the draw. To enter, sign up for their newsletter and be in the loop with the prize info, latest deals, offers and grand inspiration for a getaway to the South Coast & Southern Highlands. Visit here.
