Interstate agents sample best of Broome

5/4/03
A group of 50 interstate travel agents experienced the new Qantas direct flights from Melbourne to Broome when they arrived yesterday, for an intensive six-day education and familiarisation program.
The agents, from Melbourne, Sydney and Tasmania, will be shown some of the magnificent sights of the Pearling town including Gantheaume Point, the Dinosaur Footprints, Japanese Cemetery, Courthouse Markets and Shell House during their stay.
The group will also be escorted on a scenic flight and hovercraft tour of the bay.
Tourism Minister Clive Brown said the familiarisation tour will raise awareness of Broome as an exciting and highly desirable holiday destination, now made more accessible to interstate holiday makers.
"Initiatives such as this will maximise the impact of increased accessibility, making it easier for travellers from the Eastern States to enjoy the natural wonders Broome has to offer," Mr Brown said.
"Travel agents attending this tour will be wonderful ambassadors for Broome and will be able to endorse it as a prime holiday destination."
Qantas' new direct service has the potential to increase visitor numbers to Broome by up to 7,500 between March and October each year.
In addition to Qantas' service, Virgin Blue will introduce a direct flight from Adelaide to Broome next week.
The State Government has recently contributed $830,000 to a major marketing campaign to attract East Coast visitors to WA. Part of this campaign is a Broome-themed tram that will operate in Melbourne over the next two months.
Minister's office: 9222 9699