SCouTing for new partnerships

VISIT Sunshine Coast yesterday staged the SCouT 2021 tourism exchange, with over 500 tourism industry professionals converging at the Sunshine Coast Convention Centre for the event.

Themed to celebrate the Year of Indigenous Tourism, SCouT 2021 provided a forum for tourism operators to connect make connections, with over 100 local suppliers exhibiting their wares.

The event was held in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council, and attendees were also able to access a Sunshine Coast Business Support Hub with leaders from the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, Study Sunshine Coast, Sunshine Coast Chamber Alliance, Sunshine Coast Council, TAFE, and University of the Sunshine Coast.

One of the highlights of the day was the Ex-BEER-ience display (pictured), showcasing 12 of the region’s top craft breweries.

Visit Sunshine Coast Chief

Executive Officer Matt Stoeckel said encouraging the industry to form partnerships and promote its attractions was vital for ensuring the region continues to recover from the pandemic.

“As an industry it’s important we work together to continually expand on our tourism offerings and encourage referrals,” he said.

“We have so many fantastic attractions, restaurants, events and immersive encounters across the region for tourists to visit and explore, which all add to the appeal of the Sunshine Coast and importantly encourage visitors to stay longer and spend more in the region.”