Pictured above with the new jetty in the background are (L-R) Visitor Operations Co-Ordinator Teresa Coles, Cosi, Mayor Clare McLaughlin and Acting CEO Kristen Clark
At the invitation of Whyalla Council, Andrew ‘Cosi’ Costello hit Whyalla for a whirlwind weekend of filming for his popular show ‘ South Aussie with Cosi’.
Mayor Clare McLaughlin, who was interviewed live for the show, said that the timing of Cosi’s visit was ideal as regional travel within South Australia is now permitted after the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
“The return of visitors and tourists to our region is considered vital to our economic revival post-COVID-19. By promoting the unique and wonderful aspects of our city on such a high-profile family show, we anticipate that this will generate increased awareness and visitation to Whyalla,” said Mayor McLaughlin.
With cuttlefish season in full swing and our wonderful new jetty nearing completion, there were plenty of unique experiences for Cosi to capture on film.
Upon arrival, Cosi geared up in his wetsuit and headed out to Point Lowly to snorkel with the cuttlefish and marvel at this amazing natural event. He was accompanied by six lucky locals who won the opportunity to snorkel with Cosi in a facebook competition.
On Saturday night, the generators were hooked up to showcase the bespoke lighting installed inside the top handrail of the iconic new loop jetty. Each 500mm of handrail has a 50mm LED pod around the entire length of interior and exterior balustrade, giving the jetty a state-of-the-art sleek modern look.
Mayor McLaughlin said “Council is keenly aware that our community and business have been through some very difficult times. We hope that having a high-profile personality showcase some of our unique attractions and the exposure associated with this will help to strenghten our tourism potential, stimulate economic recovery and encourage visitors to our region. The video footage of the jetty alone has already exceeded over 600,000 views on facebook which is fantastic exposure for us.”
Cosi was blown away by the jetty and his admiration comes through loud and clear on his facebook videos – “very nice Whyalla, well done!”
‘South Aussie with Cosi’ is a travel lifestyle show airing on Channel 9 on Sunday nights at 5:30pm.
The Whyalla segment is anticipated to air in July, Council will publicise the screening date once confirmed.
Pictured below are Cosi (all suited up and ready to snorkel) and Mayor Clare McLaughlin
