Western Australia's Coral Coast gets ready for the Australian Tourism Exchange

9/06/05
Western Australia's 'Coral Coast' is abuzz with excitement, with just under two weeks to go until WA hosts the Australian Tourism Exchange for the first time.
The Coral Coast incorporates the geographic area stretching from the Pinnacles in the South to Exmouth in the North.
Tourism Minister Mark McGowan said the Australian Tourism Exchange, due to be held in Perth from June 18 - 24, would showcase WA and the Coral Coast to the world.
"ATE is the third largest event of its type in the world, and is not scheduled to be held in WA again for seven years," Mr McGowan said.
"ATE will see about 2,500 delegates, including 600 from overseas, descend on the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre, boosting the State's economy by $10million. It will also position WA as a leading holiday destination.
"Tourism is a major economic driver for WA and provides many jobs and opportunities, especially for people living in the regions."
ATE provides an ideal forum for Coral Coast tourism businesses to meet and negotiate deals with international wholesalers.
"A representative from Australia's Coral Coast regional tourism organisation will be located on the 'Western Australia' stand to promote the region's icons, including the Ningaloo Reef, Monkey Mia and the Pinnacles," the Minister said.
"This will ensure WA's Coral Coast is promoted at a personal level to some of the world's top tourism buyers."
ATE will also provide delegates with the opportunity to experience Australia's Coral Coast first-hand through an extensive pre and post-familiarisation program.
"Australia's Coral Coast will benefit from the familiarisation program, with many buyers travelling around the region both before and after ATE," Mr McGowan said.
Itineraries planned for Australia's Coral Coast cover experiences such as dolphins and dugongs, coastal off-road adventure, outback camping, manta rays and whalesharks and marine adventure.
Registrations for these visits have come from Germany, Brazil, United Kingdom, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands and Canada.
"I have no doubt that these delegates will be left with a lasting impression of the State's Coral Coast and will continue to act as advocates for the region long after they have returned home," Mr McGowan said.
Minister's office: 9222 9111