With the Southern Highlands hosting three major events, Tulip Time, The Food and Wine Festival and the Southern Highlands Rugby 7s over the weekend, this years visitation of Tulip Time smashed all records from the past decade. 

Steve Rosa, Manager of Destination Southern Highlands said the great weather, program of events, entertainment, excellent theme and display of tulips all contributed to the festivals success. 

“With a staggering 41% increase from last years visitation numbers, this years Tulip Time Festival smashed all visitation records of the past decade,” he said.

Extensive promotion plans to penetrate markets that may not have witnessed Tulip Time, saw a large influx of visiting consumers. Bowral and surrounding villages saw a considerable increase in foot traffic which businesses within the region benefited from financially.

Tulip Time in particular continues to contribute enormously to the local visitor economy with millions of dollars flowing through all the tourism touch points.

One frequent question asked to the Southern Highlands Welcome Centre was, “Where’s the Big Tulip?”

To bring the Big Tulip to the Southern Highlands, vote at www.wotif.com/nextbigthing 

Voting closes at midday, October 9.

Planning will soon start to build on this year's success with an expression of interest going out in the coming weeks to secure next year's Tulip Time charity partner.