ATE delegates tantalized by GPD

Wollongong and Illawarra Tourism attended Australia’s premier tourism trade event - Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) in Adelaide from 16 – 23 June 2006.

It was the first time for Grand Pacific Drive to be showcased in both Eastern and Western hemisphere representatives from wholesalers, inbound operators, buyers and travel media from around the world who come in search of new products to be packaged into wholesale programs and itineraries to be sold for the year commencing 2007.

“Basically we were encouraging buyers looking for a diverse holiday destination, close to Sydney, NSW international gateway to come and experience the regions natural environment” says Greg Binskin. “The buyers are always looking for a new and iconic products to sell.”

Tourism Australia and Tourism NSW have been very supportive in getting Grand Pacific Drive into new markets. The results, in some cases, have been instantaneous. “You can see immediate results out of some Asian markets…but American and European markets are more long term,” he says. “The Asia culture does everything today and can produce a flyer for distribution overnight, whereas other countries package up and sell from a brochure.”

Our aim was to get GPD and the diverse products of the Illawarra into some of those itineraries and programs in different worldwide markets, including previously untouched niche markets.

Nature and GPD continues to impress

The natural scenic beauty of Wollongong and the Grand Pacific Drive were showcased to Chinese and Malaysian tourism chiefs and media as part of the pre and post ATE touring.

First we welcomed Tourism Australia’s – May Tang (Manager and Chief Representative - China) and Jenny Yang – (Industry Servicing Manager -China) visiting the area to see first hand the products that have been packaged in China. They also were welcomed to the city with pre-dinner drinks hosted by the Lord Mayor Alex Darling and Novotel Northbeach GM, Walter Immoos. The following week, Illawarra Tourism host Malaysian agents based in Kuala Lumpur, Ms Katie Chan and Karen Saw from MSL both agents were in Australia for ATE and on a self drive famil; then the Malaysian media were shown Grand Pacific Drive in the final week of the month.

Seminars assist award entrants

Prospective entrants to the Regional and State tourism awards were given a helping hand with their entries last month. Illawarra Tourism and Tourism NSW hosted two seminars at Rydges and Warilla Bowls and Recreation Club, with a former State awards judge the host. Regional awards entry packs will be launched this month for operators.... watch for more information on the Illawarra Tourism website and we encourage everyone to enter and be part of the regions tourism industry awards night.

For further information, meanwhile, contact Kate Dombkins email or Melissa Davis email.

Whales Ahoy in Wollongong

A record number of whales off the NSW South Coast this winter has inspired Wollongong's first regular whale-watching cruises.

This year's winter whale season has been a 15 per cent increase in the number of migrating humpback, southern right, killer and minky whales along the South Coast between Wollongong and Jervis Bay, just 1-2 hours south of Sydney.

Wollongong's spectacular new over-ocean Sea Cliff Bridge on Grand Pacific Drive has proved a popular venue for pedestrians keen to watch the amazing 40 tonne mammals cruise along the coast while the lofty nearby lookout of Bald Hill at Stanwell Park adjacent to Royal National Park has also drawn crowds of whale watchers.

Kiama based charter boat MV Signa has launched Wollongong's first regular whale-watching cruises at 2pm every Saturday and Sunday, with tickets for the two-hour voyage available for $55 each, including refreshments. Booking are essential on 0423 251 603.

New business lounge at Novotel

Meeting and Business Tourism Award winner at the 2005 Tourism NSW Awards, Novotel Northbeach, prides itself on continually upgrading its services and facilities.

The latest addition is the provision to conference organisers and delegates of a VIP business lounge to relax in during their meetings and events at the property this winter. With plush furnishings in warm muted tones, work areas, complimentary newspapers and magazines, private meeting room space and interview areas, the lounge will allow patrons to recollect, relax and unwind during busy conferences and events. Complimentary refreshments are available daily with the residential conference package for a minimum 30 people, including freshly espresso coffees, hot chocolate, purified water, fresh fruit and gourmet tasty treats.

For further information contact Kylie Tarrant, Marketing Manager at Novotel Northbeach on 02 4224 3156.

Tourism Wollongong welcomes...

• LilyVale executive residence nestled amongst the beauty of the Royal National Park.
• Bombora Seafood Restaurant, Wollongong Harbour
• South Coast Graphics, North Wollongong
• Watergum Grove at Stanwell Park, Stanwell Park

Tourism Wollongong look forward to working together with these new members and would like to welcome them aboard, on what is shaping up to be changing times for the Wollongong tourism industry.

Upcoming Events...

Although Winter is upon us there is still plenty to do and see in Wollongong during July...

Public

• The event of the year for anyone planning a wedding. More than 100 wedding suppliers will be at WIN Entertainment Centre for the 2006 Illawarra Mercury Bridal Expo on Sunday 16 July from 10am-4pm. For further information website.

Sports Fans

• Sydney TAB Swifts v's Hunter Jaegers on Sunday, July 30 at WIN Entertainment Centre, starting at 1pm.

Celebrations

• Christmas in July at the Con, Saturday 1 July, Wollongong Conservatorium of Music, Murphys Avenue, Keiraville from 10am-12pm. For more information, 02 4228 1122.