Local tourism operators met visiting travel agents from all over Australia this week for a face-to-face chat to promote the region at the 2022 Whitsunday Tourism Exchange, the first of its kind in over three years.
On Tuesday, attendees engaged in a speed-dating style conversation where each local operator had just eight minutes to spruik the merits of their tour, service or experience to the 31 trade delegates that represented companies from across Australia.
A mixture of travel associates, inbound and online travel agents enjoyed the reconnaissance mission, connecting with tourism providers to discover the best recommendations for their clients.
A total of 36 local hotels, tour operators, transport services and affiliated businesses joined the conference, using their eight minutes to win good rapport and secure potential bookings.
The event took place at Club Wyndham and was followed by a networking event at Shute Harbour Marine Terminal.
Afterwards, a portion of the buyers stayed on in the Whitsundays for a post event famil, spending one night in Airlie Beach, enjoying a tour to Whitehaven Beach and concluding with a night on one of the islands.
Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Rick Hamilton said the event was an excellent opportunity for local tourism businesses.
“The goal of this event is to make sure every person looking for a holiday has access to The Whitsundays through their chosen booking channel,” he said.
“By bringing the top buyers into the region we’re making sure they know the product available and are seeing The Whitsundays at the same time.”
Tourism Whitsunday Trade Manager, Suzy Bohan said that travel agents are always on the lookout for a great holiday destination for their clients.
“The Whitsundays Tourism Exchange is one of the best ways we’ve found to influence travel itineraries issued nationally and internationally,” she said.