Sir Elton John coming to perform in Wollongong provides an incredible economic opportunity for the region.
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Without doubt the economic benefit from the Once in a Lifetime concert on the playing surface of the WIN Stadium in September will be significant.
The initial estimates of over $1.5 million are probably a little conservative.
The concert is expected to attract 17,000 people and will leave barely a hotel bed available anywhere in the city to as far south as Kiama and beyond.
Yet the future potential this opportunity provides to the Illawarra region is enormous.
That is what perhaps is most exciting.
If the concert is a success, then surely major concert promoters like Chugg Entertainment will identify further opportunities for WIN Stadium as a legitimate outdoor concert alternative to places like Sydney and the Hunter.
Remembering this is the only Elton John concert being held anywhere in New South Wales.
Destination Wollongong CEO Mark Sleigh echoed those sentiments.
“Why shouldn’t the South Coast have the same experience as the Hunter Valley and Newcastle?,” Mr Sleigh.
“Let’s go Madonna, lets go AC/DC, let’s go Adele, why stop. It’s just the beginning.”
Indeed. Certainly the community is keen as they responded to the news in droves.
“Another great positive for Wollongong - this will be the start - it just takes one artist to take the plunge and the rest will follow. Well done WEC,” one reader commented.
“Congratulations to Marc Swan, Vicki Tiegs and Tania Brown! A great achievement for WIN Sports and Entertainment Centre and awesome for Wollongong!” another said.
There was a massive response via social media and the odd tale of misfortune.
“When you are going to Scotland to see him and he performs in Wollongong,” one commented on Facebook.
Another tagged a friend and said: `` (Name removed) do you remember me saying last week that I have to see him in my lifetime? It's on when we're in America.’’
That post was ended with a crying emoji.
The Illawarra Mercury is a presenting partner Once in a Lifetime concert
We will bring you all the news in the lead-up to the event and be offering some special promotions for readers in the near future.
Tickets go on sale next month and will sell incredibly quickly.