JANETTE Hyde OAM, President of the Greater Port Macquarie Tourism Association (GPMTA), has a simple message after the recent flood disaster: “We are open for business”.
Janette, we have experienced floods in 2021 and now 2025. We deserve a break don’t we?
We certainly do. One thing that we cannot control is the weather, but we can control all the other facets of our business.
You and your hardworking board members at the GPMTA are very passionate about tourism and the associated opportunities for our region. How is the future shaping up for us?
The future is looking great due to the number of things happening in our region. We have to get the weather to be on our side and I am sure that all will just pan out.
So many people come here for a holiday, love what they see and end up relocating here permanently. That is extremely positive isn’t it?
It is. I did a recent survey and it seems that many people come to Port Macquarie as tourists and decide to stay.
In fact, there are not that many people that live here now that were actually born in Port Macquarie, so that is actually a testament to the region and its appeal.
You have witnessed first hand, over many years, the growth of our region. If you had a crystal ball, how do you see the area growing in the next 10 years?
With the number of enthusiastic organisations supporting our community, and the individuals who are so passionate, we cannot do anything but move forward. And the next 10 years will be very exciting.
You have been recognised as one of our region’s greatest assets with your hard work, passion, vision and commitment to tourism. What does the future hold for you at the GPMTA?
Sadly, there is a thing called age and it is catching up with me. I have to make sure that there is some succession planning, so I will step down in a minor way and hopefully support the people left behind me and we will grow stronger.
Your husband has been there for you every step of your journey. Give our readers a little insight into Alan.
Alan is my rock. Without him, I would not have been able to achieve what I have done. He also supports the community as well by working at Lifeline as a volunteer. I am really proud of his efforts and without him I would not have been able to achieve all that I have.
I know that there is an announcement coming up for a big community event supported by the GPMTA. Any details for Scoop?
Watch this space… we are working on a pretty special event. I am excited that in mid-July, some enthusiastic people are planning an event with details being released in the next week or two. In June, we have a great initiative from the Hastings Liquor Accord, called Pour and Explore, with so many activities happening in various clubs, pubs and licensed premises.
By Dave ‘Scoop’ LAZARUS
