Indigenous conference returns to WA
More than 400 indigenous tourism operators are expected to attend the annual Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference, to be held in Broome on October 20-23, with WA Tourism Minister Sheila McHale saying that Western Australia would again host the conference following the enormous success of the 2005 conference, hosted by the Western Australian Indigenous Tourism Operators Committee ( WAITOC ) in Perth, and last year’s conference that WAITOC held in Alice Springs.
“This is a great opportunity to showcase our State’s unique indigenous attractions and experiences to the rest of the world,” Ms McHale said.
“Indigenous culture is a huge attraction for international tourists, with more than a quarter of international visitors looking for an authentic indigenous experience.”
“Interest has already been received from delegates in some of our key international markets including New Zealand, Germany and Asia. We have also had interest from other markets, such as South Africa, Sweden, Belgium and France.”
WAITOC Chairperson Maria Morgan said the 2007 conference was expected to be bigger than ever, adding, “The conference has achieved recognition as the primary Australian forum for those with a common interest in indigenous tourism to meet and form new partnerships”.
“The 2007 Australian Indigenous Tourism Conference will focus on the environment, our young people, business opportunities and maintaining our culture.” “The conference will also highlight the opportunities that exist for culturally authentic indigenous tourism product, especially in the development, employment and training of indigenous people.”
“It will also address key issues and needs that impact on indigenous tourism in Australia.”
Minister McHale said the State Government recognised the current growth in the indigenous tourism market, adding, “Tourism WA and its industry partners have various successful programs in place to support these changes, but like others I believe all of us need to do more.”
“The Visitor Centre Traineeship Scheme, now in its third year, has seen many indigenous trainees successfully complete their training at several regional Visitor Centres throughout Western Australia, providing local employment and the development of positive partnerships with tourism operators and the indigenous population.”
“There is also the Indigenous Cadetship Project which provides job opportunities as well as promoting growth and diversity in the tourism industry, with nine major organisations in WA involved in tourism now participating in the program.”
“The cadetships offer a range of interesting career opportunities, such as those in the indigenous tourism industry, with the aim to secure long-term indigenous employees.”
To register for the conference, visit http://www.aitc2007.com
Report by The Mole
John Alwyn-Jones
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