Bus service injects $14.5 million into Byron economy

ABOUT 50,000 people are estimated to visit Byron Bay by a long-distance coach service this year, making it the second most popular destination for Greyhound Australia.

It is the only long-distance coach company that operates in the region.

Seven Greyhound services arrive at the Byron Bay interchange every day, injecting up to $14.5 million into the local economy annually, with one full busload spending about $6000 per night.

The average passenger spending figures based on latest tourism data from the Australian Government.

Byron Bay is second only to Brisbane, which has the highest number of backpackers and seasonal ticket holders.

Greyhound Australia marketing and communications manager Michael Leard said backpackers make up 63 per cent of the passenger load at Byron Bay.

The region experienced more growth this year after it was the third most popular drop-off in 2023.

“This achievement is a testament to the hard work of the local tourism industry as we build back after Covid,” Mr Leard said.

“We’re looking forward to another busy summer peak travel season with the increased number of international visitors back on Australian shores.”

Byron Bay and Sydney were the only NSW destinations in the top 10 with the rest from Queensland.

They were Airlie Beach, Townsville, Noosa, Cairns, Surfers Paradise, Toowoomba, and Rainbow Beach.

The figures factor in almost 200 stops around the nation, with services in every mainland state and territory.