A report by  consultants into  Shoalhaven  tourism says the sector is less sophisticated than other areas competing to attract visitors from  Sydney and Canberra.

The report has been prepared by Jenny Rand and  suggests councils tourism unit is under resourced and was critical of the tourism board, saying  needs to  take a more  interventionist role in increasing visitation.

Visitors currently inject more than $670 million a year into the local economy, and recently retired Tourism Manager Tom Phillips says in the foreseeable future it will be a billion dollar  industry.
The reports says Nowra needs  a minimum four star hotel, while developing the Shaolin temple at Comberton Grange and a large safe boat harbour will be  crucial for future growth.
Gilmore MP and Mayoral candidate  Jo Gash says the industry  has done really well in today's difficult market, but believes council needs to ease the tight control over the tourism board