Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd (SCDL) is this week host to over 350 inbound tour operators and tourism professionals from around the country as part of the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) Symposium.
CEO of SCDL, Steve Cooper believes the event provides a tremendous opportunity for key tourism sellers and industry to visit the region and experience the products it offers.
“We have developed a series of pre and post familiarisation tours around the workshop and conference program to showcase the entire Sunshine Coast region. 70 operators will participate in the tour program in order to learn more about the Sunshine Coast for themselves. We have received tremendous support for this fantastic famils program with over 100 local tourism suppliers from accommodation to dining and attractions to transport participating and assisting to host the inbound operators.
“This type of event is timely as the destination starts its journey towards maturity to educate the country’s leading buyers and influencers on what the Sunshine Coast can offer their clients and groups.” added Mr Cooper.
SCDL has also created other initiatives for the delegates to experience and to highlight a sample of the regions experiences.
For the first time, delegates will enjoy an exciting new addition to the program format with a Destination Showcase breakfast event this morning (Thursday 3 May) featuring a colourful explosion of entertainment, attractions, diversity of local cuisine, artisans and demonstrations. SCDL has worked with the local surf movement, Seasons of the Sun, Eumundi Markets and Noosa Farmers Market to provide an unparalleled experience to wow the delegates. In addition, many of the Eumundi Market stall holders will also present a mini market during the breakout sessions for today’s plenary sessions at Coolum Golf and Spa.
A ‘Dining Around’ the Sunshine Coast program has also been developed for the ATEC conference representatives to get a taste of the region’s dining ambience, service and unique quality of cuisine. Planned for tonight (Thursday evening), many menus and specials have been specifically prepared for the visiting operators and industry. Restaurants involved include Fish on Parkyn, The Loose Goose, Embassy XO, Pitchfork, Wasabi, Berardo’s, Ricky’s and the Spirit House.
The conference will conclude with a special celebration of ATEC’s 40th year Anniversary and ruby themed Gala Dinner. SCDL has compiled and promoted a range of deals to encourage many of the conference delegates to extend their stay in the region for the Labour Day Long Weekend.
Image captions
ViewfromMontville.jpg – One of the groups enjoyed exploring the Sunshine Coast hinterland |