Visit Sunshine Coast (VSC) will put the spotlight on exciting new international ready products, signature experiences and itineraries with the launch of their new ‘International Travel Planner 2019-20’ at the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE), currently being held 8-12 April 2019, in Perth.
As VSC’s major trade marketing collateral tool, the planner will be used to promote the region to key international distribution partners. The 54-page, A5 booklet is available in print, digital download and flip-book versions and showcases the region’s unique features including world-class nature, contemporary beach culture, innovative food, exhilarating events and immersive encounters as well as itineraries and detailed listings of operators.
VSC is joined at ATE by a dozen tourism businesses showcasing the region, and with full appointment schedules and agents lining up to meet with them, the Sunshine Coast is proving to be a popular and emerging Australian destination at this year’s trade show.
Visit Sunshine Coast CEO Simon Latchford said the region’s diversity of attractions and events was providing the momentum for international tourism growth across the region.
“The region remains one of Queensland’s favourite beach destinations, but what has been particularly encouraging is the heightened interest in the exciting expansion of our airport, announcement of food events and new tourism experiences – particularly offerings suited to high value travellers to explore beyond the gateways and immerse in world class nature and get up close to wildlife,” he said.
Rather than just attending ATE and undertaking appointments with travel trade agents, we are thinking differently to make an impression on the global market. This year, we have partnered with Tourism Noosa and Sunshine Coast Airport through our Aviation Partnership to take over the billboards and advertising panels in the arrivals and departure area of Perth International Airport to ensure our Sunshine Coast message is one of the last they see and remains with international buyers. It is about trying to cut through the clutter and have an edge over competitors.”
VSC will be joined by other partners and operators selling the region, including: Australia Zoo, Mary Valley Rattler, The Ginger Factory, Destination Gympie Region, Tourism Noosa, Habitat Noosa, Stay Noosa, Newport Mooloolaba, Eco Safaris Queensland, Sunshine Coast Craft Beer Tours, Makepeace Island and Croc Tours.
Attendance at ATE follows the Sunshine Coast attracting an increase in international visitors with 311,000 arrivals visiting last year up 3.6% and contributing $246.5 million to the economy, an increase of 4.8% from the previous year. Released by Tourism Research Australia, the recent survey saw New Zealand leading the way with 71,000 visitors lured to the area, an increase of 10.6%, 61,000 UK visitors up 5.5% and the emerging Asian markets attracted 31,000 visitors demonstrating a surge of 21.8%.
View and or download the Sunshine Coast International Travel Planner 2019-2020.
