Further funding to fashion Morpeth into a 'hipster heritage' destination

Maitland City Council will continue its partnership with It Must Be Morpeth (IMBM) Incorporated for a third year, contributing $25,000 to promote the historic Hunter township as a premier ‘hipster heritage’ destination.

The funding agreement will see IMBM undertake a range of marketing initiatives to drive overnight visitation to Morpeth.

‘Delivering on Maitland’s Destination Management Plan 2030, this partnership with IMBM will bring visitors to Morpeth to experience its boutique stores, unique dining experiences, scenic river views and rich history,’ said Maitland City Council Coordinator City and Visitor Economy Caroline Booth.

‘Now into its third year, this collaborative marketing effort is working in tandem with ongoing Council projects and initiatives to bolster Morpeth’s visitor experiences, destination awareness and appeal.’

Ms Booth highlighted the completion of the most recent stage of the Morpeth Shared Pathway as a significant achievement and a step closer to realising the Morpeth to Walka Water Works Shared Pathway.

The pathway now stretches along Morpeth Road, linking up with an existing path on Steamer Street to create a scenic loop, as well as extending along Queens Wharf Road, improving pedestrian access to the river.

IMBM is a volunteer run business group, representing over 25 local businesses, which works to promote Morpeth as a must see destination for locals and visitors, boost visitor numbers and support local business owners.

Ms Booth thanked outgoing IMBM President Lisa Simmons-Webb and the group’s volunteers for ‘their work in marketing Morpeth and cultivating a collaborative partnership with Council.’

Current IMBM President, Emily Gray of Hunter Oasis, said ‘we’re grateful to Maitland City Council for their continued support, and we look forward to continuing our efforts to secure Morpeth a top spot on everyone’s itinerary.’

‘Whether you enjoy a riverside lunch, browse artisan items in charming stores, uncover Morpeth’s history on a heritage walk or stay overnight in cozy village accommodation, there truly is so much to discover in Morpeth.’

To find out all that Morpeth has to offer, visit itmustbemorpeth.com.au and mait.city/Morpeth