“The Coffs Coast leg of the WRC is a huge event for our area and provides a significant boost to the local economy and showcases our region to more than 60 million international tv viewers,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

“Last year more than 54,000 motor sport enthusiasts visited the Coffs Coast for the rally, which pumps money into the economy in so many ways. We can expect the same massive influx of the visitors to the Coffs Coast when it returns again in November.

“The North Coast leg the World Rally Championship has become one of our region’s largest tourism events. It is an important event on the motoring calendar, not just for our area, but for the whole of Australia.

“I support Coffs Harbour Chamber of Commerce in their push to have the Coffs Harbour City Council retain its financial support by continuing its sponsorship of this important sporting and tourism event,” Mr Hartsuyker said.

Coffs Harbour Councillors John Arkan, Sally Townley, Nan Cowling and Mark Sultana  voted against approving the council’s current World Rally sponsorship arrangements while mayor Denise Knight and Cr Keith Rhoades voted for the motion. Cr Rhoades plans to put forward a rescission motion at the next council meeting.