Delegation amazed by what’s here
Delegation of Chinese television officials ‘amazed’ by Garden City
A DELEGATION of Chinese television officials has been left amazed by what’s on offer in the Toowoomba region in what could be a massive economic boost for the area.
In a move that could expose millions of Chinese eyeballs to our region’s attractions, Tourism Darling Downs brought over the group to explore Toowoomba during the Carnival of Flowers.
The delegates, including members of national broadcaster China Central Television, touched down at Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport before taking part in a paddockto-plate experience.
A DELEGATION of Chinese television officials has been left amazed by what’s on offer in the Toowoomba region in what could be a massive economic boost for the area.
In a move that could expose millions of Chinese eyeballs to our region’s attractions, Tourism Darling Downs brought over the group to explore Toowoomba during the Carnival of Flowers.
The delegates, including members of national broadcaster China Central Television, touched down at Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport on Wednesday night before taking part in a paddock-to-plate experience in the Hampton area.
Tourism Darling Downs CEO Ruth Wetmore said the group met with avocado, blueberry, passionfruit and mushroom producers in the north Toowoomba region, and were stunned by the hands-on experience.
“It was really great experience, very hands-on – they’ve been entirely fascinated that they can meet friendly farmers,” she said on Thursday.
“We are now at Emeraude (cafe in Hampton) and plan to have lunch based on all the farms that we’ve had lunch at.
“It’s incredible to see it come from farm to table.”
The group were also special guests at the Qantas Gala Dinner at Laurel Bank Park on Thursday night.
Ms Wetmore said the film the group took during its visit and at the Carnival of Flowers would likely be broadcast and used internally back in China.
“When they expressed interest in coming to the Darling Downs, I had invited them at carnival time because we can showcase everything else and our jewel in the crown,” she said.
“The way we see is the Chinese love the concept of parks and gardens – it’s central to their culture.
“They will use some of their footage and take it back to their board to find out what boxes are ticked.
“I believe they will be that blown away by the carnival that they will use the carnival (for broadcasting).
“There’s no question they will use footage now – what they choose for the rest, they’re just absolutely overawed by how much we’ve shown them in half a day.”
Ms Wetmore said the key goal for the tourism industry in Toowoomba was to be ready to offer packages to Chinese tourists based on the information that was gathered.
“The overall long term goal for us is that we have showcased the region spectacularly while they’re here, and then we’ll put our packages together and send that to our partners,” she said.
“I don’t profess to say we are ready with tens of thousands of visitors, but we have to start somewhere.”