Gold Coast to host key export tourism trade event
The Gold Coast will be front and centre of the tourism sector this year when it hosts one of the industry’s biggest events.
The three-day Australian Tourism Export Council’s (ATEC) Meeting Place will be held here for the first time postpandemic, with more than 500 industry leaders flying in for the event, which will run from October 28 to 30.
Industry leaders, decisionmakers, marketing and business development managers will come together with international travel buyers to sell the city, state and country to overseas airlines and destinations in a bid to ramp up the sector.
Tourism Minister Michael Healy said they would use the Gold Coast to sell Australia to the world.
“The Gold Coast is one of the world’s most recognised visitor destinations and a key international tourism hub, so it’s great to be hosting ATEC Meeting Place this October,” he said.
“Events like this are important groundwork for the future of tourism in this state because we know when international buyers experience our great lifestyle and iconic visitor offerings, they’ll recommend them to agents and holidaymakers around the globe.
“It also brings a short-term boost to the local visitor economy, which is great for local accommodation and hospitality providers and good local industry jobs.”
Meetings will be held during the event aimed at ramping up international visitor numbers, which have been lagging behind surging domestic travel.
Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said the event arrived at a critical moment for the city.
“Hosting ATEC Meeting Place is a timely opportunity to showcase the destination directly to inbound trade partners who will help sell it globally,” he said.
“This first-hand experience is critical as we continue to reclaim international demand which is worth more than $1.3 billion to our visitor economy.
“With World Heritage listed rainforests less than an hour’s drive from the city, pristine beaches, world-class theme parks and experiences, and some of the best restaurants and cafes using the freshest local produce – the Gold Coast is well placed to deliver a vibrant program.”