International buyers and Australian sellers’ delegates who attend the Australian Tourism Exchange (ATE) in Cairns have given an almost perfect score in a feedback survey regarding the event.
Held for the first time ever in Cairns, ATE14 has been hailed an 'outstanding success' by organisers, with Tourism Australia and Tourism and Events Queensland revealing 100% of the buyers and 99% of sellers who responded to the survey expressed satisfaction with the event.
Delegates highlighted the welcoming city of Cairns and enthusiastic support of the local community as far exceeding their expectations, and said the casual, laid back atmosphere helped to create an environment conducive to doing business.
Also commended was the flawless planning and execution of the event itself, specifically the 'Queensland Welcome' and 'Farewell' functions. The 'Restaurant Australia-themed gala farewell function in particular providing a unique opportunity to showcase Australia's amazing food and wine offering on a truly global stage.
Tourism Australia managing director, John O'Sullivan, said ATE14 was “certainly a challenge” with several logistical challenges as this year was the first time the event had ever been held in a regional destination in its 35 year history.
“One of the great benefits of a regional destination was Cairns really rolled out the red carpet. From the airport to the exhibition venue, hotels, restaurants and surrounding sights and attractions, the people of Cairns were all aware and interested in the event and delegates,” O'Sullivan said.
Testament to the tourism industry and Cairns community, Queensland Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Jann Stuckey said ATE14 can be regarded as the most successful in the event's 35 year history following the survey results.
According to O'Sullivan, the results from the survey provided invaluable learnings for Tourism Australia and would help in the organising of next year's ATE, being held in Melbourne from 21 – 25 June.
ATE14 was organized by Tourism Australia in conjunction with Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Tropical North Queensland, and airline partners Virgin Australia and Etihad Airways. The five day event brought together 1,200 Australian delegates from 429 Australian tourism businesses to meet with 600 key buyer delegates from 36 countries.
