An update from the state’s peak tourism organisation, Destination NSW, revealed there were 1,070,000 visitors to Orange up to December 2016.

Those million people compare to 773,500 visitors to the region until December 2015.

It’s not only the number of people visiting increasing, tourists are spending more, $260 million until December last year compared to $190 million in 2015.

Tourism in Cabonne Council also received a boost with an extra 7.6 per cent visitors spending the night, up to an average of 176,100 nights in 2016.

Brand Orange chairwoman Robyn Murray said the region was firmly on the map.

“Brand Orange Ltd, in partnership with Orange City, Cabonne, Blayney councils and local industry, has helped place this great region on the national map,” Ms Murray said.

“Although tourism in the region continues to go from strength-to-strength, we cannot afford to rest on our laurels.

“It is critical to ensure that we are one united industry-led voice, and that we continue to have a leading edge in destination marketing. 

“The proposed new partnerships with Orange City, Cabonne and Blayney Councils, will take this region out to the world.

Brand Orange executive officer Rhonda Sear said the statistics showed Orange was a leading destination.

Ms Sear said the growth was supported by events including FOOD Week, the wine festival and the Banjo Paterson Australian Poetry festival.

“Feedback from the state tourism body, Destination NSW, is that the Orange region is leading the way in regional domestic tourism across NSW, and these figures from Destination NSW clearly support that statement,” Ms Sear said.

“More and more visitors from across Australia and the world are learning about our region’s great local wines and fresh produce with a desire to visit our region for first-hand experience.

“With such amazing produce, sport, local history, tourism activities and so many wonderful dining experiences to be had, it’s little wonder so many visitors are choosing to experience our thriving culinary hot spots, award-winning restaurants and our scenic roads and trails.”