The direct visitor spend was $349,622.

More than 14,500 people attended the Tastings on Hastings weekend program of events.

The October 27-29 program showcased food, farmers, producers and entertainment. 

A report to go before the February 21 council meeting said the event was one of the region’s largest local events celebrated by our community, while also bringing visitors to the region.

“The event resulted in a direct visitor spend of $349,622 and an estimated total economic impact of $1.1 million,” the report said.

A recommendation on the council meeting agenda involves looking ahead to the 2018 event.

Meanwhile, the draft Lake Cathie Foreshore Masterplan is another item on the council meeting agenda.

The Lake Cathie foreshore stretches across 1.2 kilometres of regionally significant foreshore space from Evans Street to Illaroo Road.

The council report said given the increased population pressures in the Lake Cathie/Bonny Hills area, the need had been identified to look more holistically at the foreshore space and to strategically plan for its future.

“As such, council has prepared the Lake Cathie Foreshore Master Plan following extensive consultation with the local community,” the report said.

A recommendation proposes further community consultation through public exhibition of the draft plan in March.

Funding for the dredging of Lake Cathie is also on the council meeting agenda.

The Department of Industries – Lands, through the Rescuing our Waterways Grant program, has provided $175,000 for the project.

The council needs to match the state government funding.

The council report explores how the council proposes to fund its portion of the dredging project.

The Port Macquarie-Hastings Council meeting begins at 5.30pm on February 21 at the council chambers in Burrawan Street.