27/4/07
An estimated $3million will be injected into the Western Australian economy after the nation's biggest travel network chose to hold a major conference in Perth.
Tourism Minister Sheila McHale said Travelscene American Express (a division of Stella Travel Services) would hold its FOCUS 2007 conference at the Perth Convention Exhibition Centre from October 18-21.
"This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase WA to about 1,000 of Australia's top travel agents and others involved in the industry," Ms McHale said.
"Apart from an expected direct economic impact of more than $3million, the State will benefit indirectly through the opportunity to show off to these key tourism vendors.
"Travelscene American Express was voted Australia's Best Travel Agency Group 2006 and is now part of the major global travel organisation, Stella Travel Services."
Travelscene general manager Leith Mills said the FOCUS conference would build on the training and education opportunities already provided to Travelscene member agencies.
"In addition to the premium networking and training for member agencies, owners, managers and consultants, both leisure and corporate, the FOCUS 2007 conference will give delegates a 'true taste' of everything Western Australian," Ms Mills said.
"Travelscene member agencies represent many of Australia's premium and top selling travel agents so this is a wonderful opportunity to position WA as a business and leisure destination."
Ms McHale said by luring major conferences, the Carpenter Government was ensuring the State's strong economy delivered jobs and opportunities for Western Australians.
Minister's Office - 9213 6900
Note: Travelscene American Express Travelscene American Express, Australia's largest and most respected travel network, recently dominated the 2006 National Travel Industry Award winning four of the six major awards, along with Best Agency Group. Travelscene American Express has over 600 member agencies across the country and is now part of the Stella Travel Group.
