Ernie Dingo to play part in promotion of WA tourism

6/11/96

One of Western Australia's favourite sons, Ernie Dingo, will help promote a special tourism message to Western Australians in 1997 as part of the Brand WA program, Tourism Minister Norman Moore announced today.

"Mr Dingo's message is that every Western Australian has a role to play to ensure that Western Australia is seen as a welcoming tourist destination," Mr Moore said.

"As a proud Western Australian, Mr Dingo has seen most of what the State has to offer visitors.

"Through his role as a presenter on the top rating Channel 7 travel program 'The Great Outdoors', he has also seen what other competing destinations have to offer."

Research conducted by the WA Tourism Commission has shown the importance of a community which actively welcomes visitors.

Mr Moore said when potential visitors to WA were asked to describe the State, words such as 'fresh, free, spirited and natural' often emerged.

"Just as these words describe the personality of WA, I think they also say a lot about WA people," he said.

"It is important that we do not lose sight of the elements of our collective personality, which make WA such a great place to live in and to visit, or the need to ensure that the State remains a welcoming destination.

"By taking a positive attitude towards tourism and tourists we can all contribute to the growth of the tourism industry and all share in the benefits the industry provides to Western Australians."

Mr Moore said that this community-based education campaign, entitled 'Keep up the Good Work', would highlight the role everyone could play in expanding the tourism industry.

Media contact: Anabel Gomez 321 1444 or 222 9595