This month’s Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) in Perth proved a huge success, with more than 2,000 delegates descending on Western Australia’s shores to experience the State’s remarkable tourism offerings.
ATE19, organised by Tourism Australia and co-hosted by Tourism Western Australia, was one of the most successful to date, attracting the highest amount of WA sellers in 10 years.
About 80 WA tourism operators took part in the event, including adventure, wildlife and culinary tourism operators and accommodation providers ranging from high-end hotels to campgrounds, as well as a record number of WA Aboriginal tourism sellers.
Western Australia’s tourism product was experienced firsthand through an extensive familiarisation program of 96 tours to destinations such as Kununurra, Albany, Exmouth, Kalgoorlie, Geraldton, Margaret River, Perth city and Rottnest Island.
A total of 60 tourism and event student volunteers from North and South Metropolitan TAFEs played an important part in the event, significantly contributing to its success.
The TAFE volunteers performed roles ranging from event officers to delegate experience officers, providing support and information services to delegates across a number of Perth locations.
In recognition of their efforts, Tourism WA will present volunteers with a small gift and an appreciation certificate signed by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia and Tourism WA Managing Director Brodie Carr.
In addition, Rottnest Island Authority and SeaLink are offering all ATE volunteers a free return day trip to Rottnest Island, as well as free bike hire, to thank them for their contribution during the event.
Rottnest welcomed more than 100 media and trade delegates on familiarisation tours before, during and after the event.
ATE is Australia’s largest annual travel and tourism business-to-business event, attracting about 600 international and domestic buyers and 70 media from more than 30 countries as well as 1,400 sellers from more than 550 companies.
The event provides an opportunity for Australian tourism providers to showcase their products and negotiate deals with organisations who sell Australian tourism product internationally.
As stated by Tourism Minister Paul Papalia:
“I’d like to acknowledge the enthusiasm and support we’ve had from the local tourism industry for this event, including the businesses involved in the familiarisation program, and the sponsor hotels.
“Thank you all for going above and beyond to show visiting media and delegates the spectacular tourism offerings across our State.
“I’d also like to thank and congratulate the student volunteers who gave up their time to help out with this event, and wish them every success in their future careers.
“This event wouldn’t have been the success it was without this combined tourism industry and volunteer support.”
