The Festival of Hockey has kept accommodation managers and owners on their toes as players and guests stream into Goulburn from all over the country.

Mercure Goulburn has reached a 80-90 per cent capacity so far for the month of January; Bakehouse Motel reached capacity during the first week; and the Willows Motel has seen a 15pc increase in occupancy from last year.

While a small number hotels and motels have experienced little change, Goulburn Mulwaree recreational facility coordinator Scott Cooper says the district is well prepared to hold events of this size. 

“The response has been fantastic,” Mr Cooper said.

“Managers and coaches are impressed with the facility we have to offer. We’ve proven with other tournaments we’ve held that we can well and truly host these types of events.

“Everyone in the community should be proud of the facility on offer. We’re very well situated and able to cope.” 

Some 500 people are expected to attend the finals, he said. An average of 12 teams are competing per age group.

“We’ve gained a lot more bookings, which has been really good,” Lilac City Motor Inn staff member Teneille Goulthorp said. 

“It has brought a lot more younger people to Goulburn. It has been full nearly every day for the whole month of January. It’s nice to interact with people [from] outside NSW.” 

The Festival of Hockey is held at the Veolia Arena and will run for the month.