Sunshine Coast Council will this week welcome 14 government officials from the Xiamen Tourism
Board to the Sunshine Coast region with the objective of better understanding how tourism is
managed in the region.
Xiamen is the sister city to Sunshine Coast in China and this delegation follows a tourism trade and
investment mission to Xiamen, China in October 2011, led by Councillor Jenny McKay.
“This has been a real break through for international tourism as the Xiamen Government has
entrusted the International Relations Department with control of the itinerary, local transportation
and most excitingly they will be flying directly into the Sunshine Coast Airport. This has enabled us
to provide our communities with the maximum exposure as part of their visit,” said Cr Jenny
McKay.
Sunshine Coast Destination Ltd (SCDL) is supporting the mission and along with local operators
targeting China will meet with the government officials.
SCDL CEO, Steve Cooper said foundation work to position the region has taken place through
Sunshine Coast Council and Cr McKay over the past 12 to 17 years.
“The Sister City relationship with Xiamen provides a real opportunity to leverage an existing strong
relationship with China. Key Sunshine Coast stakeholders are also intensifying promotion of the
region and continuing to position the Coast as an ideal international holiday and business
destination.
“SCDL and council are committed to supporting local tourism operators actively pursuing this
market,” added Mr Cooper.
In addition to touring the Ginger Factory, the group will tour Noosa, Montville, Maleny and Mary
Cairncross during their visit before also heading to Cairns.