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That was the feeling yesterday of Eurobodalla Tourism manager John Pugsley, who said cheap airfares and a strong Aussie dollar posed a threat to South Coast tourism.

“The dollar has gone in favour of outbound travel which means that potentially consumers can get more value for the dollar overseas than ever before,” he said.

“No longer are we competing against places like the Shoalhaven or Queensland for our tourist dollar. These days we’re up against places like Bali, Phuket, Fiji, any of those resort-type beach holidays.”

The soaring Australian dollar, combined with rock bottom airfare prices, means travellers are saving thousands of dollars on the cost of typical UK or US holidays in comparison to a year ago.

“In some instances fares are hundreds of dollars cheaper than they were this time last year,” Flight Centre’s Colin Bowman said.

“In addition, the strengthening Australian dollar means holiday budgets now stretch considerably further at these hugely popular destinations.”

However, although Mr Pugsley concedes outbound travel is a potential risk, he predicts big things for the shire’s peak tourist season.

“Because the dollar has gone in favour of outbound travel we have to ensure that our product is out there at a fair price, which shows value for money,” he said.

“We have to make sure that when people visit the area they get the very best service that they can possibly get. At the end of the day, that is what will bring them back, that is what will get them to recommend us to their friends.”

Mr Pugsley said local accommodation and holiday providers had reported a strong start to the season.

“A lot of them are having quite a successful time,” he said.

For The Bower’s Sue and Mark Berry, improved facilities have resulted in an increase to the number of interstate and international visitors to their property.