Published on Wednesday, 22 January 2025 at 7:48:00 AM
Visitors to the Town of Port Hedland RV overflow camping area injected an estimated $3.37 million into the Hedland economy in 2024, survey data shows.
That is a 20% increase on the $2.82 million spent during the peak tourist season from May to October in 2023.
The data shows 4661 vehicles stayed at the overflow area in 2024, an increase of 941 vehicles from the previous tourist season.
Mayor Peter Carter said the figures showed the importance of the RV overflow area in McGregor Street, Port Hedland, which was accessible to self-contained RV and caravan travellers.
“Hedland is so much more than just a place to stop for fuel on your way somewhere else,” he said.
“The figures show the RV overflow is an important facility and the economic benefits it provides for local businesses are huge.”
The RV overflow has proven to attract visitors to the region, with 64% of guests saying the camping facility influenced their decision to stop in Hedland. In addition, having the facility open year-round allows Port Hedland to maintain its status as an RV Friendly Town.
The Town received 646 survey responses from visitors who stayed at the facility, with figures showing:
- The average length of stay was 2.2 nights;
- The average spend per travel party was $723;
- 62% were first-time visitors to Port Hedland;
- 64% said the free camping facility influenced their decision to stop in Hedland; and
- Most visitors were from Queensland (23%), WA (22%), New South Wales (19%) and Victoria (18%).
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