Western Australia's Golden Outback gets ready for the Australian Tourism Exchange

9/06/05
Western Australia's Golden Outback is abuzz with excitement, with just under two weeks to go until Western Australia hosts the Australian Tourism Exchange for the first time.
Tourism Minister Mark McGowan said the Australian Tourism Exchange, due to be held in Perth from June 18 - 24, would showcase WA and the Golden Outback 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 tourism businesses in the Golden Outback to meet and negotiate deals with international wholesalers.
"A representative from WA's Golden Outback regional tourism organisation will be located on the 'Western Australia' stand to promote the region's icons, including Kalgoorlie, wildflower country and outback adventure," the Minister said.
"This will ensure Australia's Golden Outback is promoted at a more personal level to some of the world's top tourism buyers."
ATE will also provide delegates with the opportunity to experience the State's Golden Outback first-hand through an extensive pre and post-familiarisation program.
"WA's Golden Outback will benefit from the familiarisation program, with many buyers travelling around the region both before and after ATE," Mr McGowan said.
Itineraries planned for the Golden Outback cover experiences such as outback stations, gorges, marine adventure, beaches, natural wonders, wineries and Kalgoorlie.
Registrations for these visits have come from China, Netherlands, Taiwan, Australia, Switzerland, Thailand, Japan, Germany, Malaysia and India.
"I have no doubt that these delegates will be left with a lasting impression of WA's Golden Outback and will continue to act as advocates for the region long after they have returned home," Mr McGowan said.
Minister's office: 9222 9111