Sustainable Future on 2008 Tasmanian Tourism Conference Agenda
The future sustainability of the tourism industry was the focus of the 2008 Tasmanian Tourism Conference at the Country Club Resort on Tuesday 15th of July.
TICT Chief Executive Officer Daniel Hanna said the Conference is the biggest event in the Tasmanian Tourism industry calendar.
“This year we have a record 330 delegates to the conference from all sectors of the industry and all regions of the State. The attendance reflects the importance the industry places on the conference,” Mr Hanna said.
“Our theme this year – Tourism: A Sustainable Future - is on everyone’s minds given the enormous issues facing the industry, not just in Tasmania, but nationally as well.
Mr Hanna said the TICT had recently hosted a visit to Tasmania by the Federal Minister for Resources, Energy and Tourism the Hon Martin Ferguson MP where it took the opportunity to urge both Federal and State Governments to concentrate their resources on core policies – particularly market research and destination marketing - to counter growing obstacles to travel.
“The conference looked closely at some of the challenges including climate change and what it means for tourism, the rising cost of fuel and rapid changes driven by the internet and online marketing which is changing the way people plan and book their travel.
“Despite these challenges, Tasmania still has a lot going for it like investments in arts and cultural attractions such as Morilla’s MONA and the Government’s upgrading of TMAG which provide an opportunity to attract new high-yield visitors.
Mr Hanna said the conference also looked at these opportunities and how the tourism industry can help ensure the sustainability of Tasmania’s heritage assets and its outstanding wilderness and natural beauty.
The conference was officially opened by the Minister for Economic Development and Tourism Paula Wriedt. It included the popular Trade Exhibition where delegates can view the latest products and industry suppliers.
