07 May 2012

South Australia is preparing to welcome the largest conference on the tourism industry calendar.

The State has won hosting rights for the 2013 Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) Symposium, a four-day event that attracts more than 500 representatives of the Australian tourism export industry.

Tourism Minister Gail Gago said the announcement was great news for South Australia’s vibrant tourism sector and would give operators an exciting chance to promote their products.

“Hosting the symposium presents us with a wonderful opportunity to capitalise on the growing interest in South Australia globally,” Ms Gago said.

“Our state represents a brilliant blend of attractions and the ATEC Symposium is an ideal way to highlight everything we have to offer.

“This event directly contributes more than $1 million to each host state’s economy and ultimately shapes itineraries for thousands of travellers eager to visit Australia.”

Workshop appointments between travel distributors and suppliers are a major part of the symposium, which was held last week on the Sunshine Coast.

Social events, touring options and an informative plenary and business session conference are other key aspects of its program, along with a gala dinner and a South Australian showcase event.

“In addition to scheduled symposium events, the South Australian Tourism Commission will be arranging a series of familiarisation tours for visiting inbound tour operators,” Ms Gago said.

“These will allow us to further boost industry knowledge of South Australia and its diverse regions.”

South Australian ATEC branch chair Paul Brown, who owns Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours and operates Seascape Lodge on Emu Bay with his wife Mandy, said securing the symposium was a major win for the state.

“The best advertisement for any destination is to get people to experience what you have to offer,” Mr Brown said.