News in brief: Thursday January 24

Carlson Wagonlit Travel has renewed its 10-year old joint venture relationship with China Air Service (CAS) as the travel management company underlined its commitment to the Chinese market. Its Chinese operations have grown to 600 employees since 2003, with the firm reporting "significant growth" over that period. CWT launched its first China-specific app last week.
Tourism Ireland has welcomed news that Etihad is growing its Dublin capacity as it reported a healthy outlook for 2013.
Marketing manager Australia and New Zealand, Diane Butler, told Travel Today the boost came in response to growth in visitation to Ireland across the VFR, leisure and MICE segments.
"2012 was a great year for Ireland from Australia and our trade partners have all reported very healthy increases in forward bookings for 2013," she said. "Airline access and capacity is always key for any destination to maximise its potential and we have worked very closely with Etihad to encourage growth."
Wilpena Pound Resort's charter airline, Air Wilpena, will operate two, five-night aerial and landscape photography tours of South Australia's Flinders Ranges and Lake Eyre. The tours, for a minimum of six and maximum of 12 people with departures on June 4 and October 22, will include four nights at the resort, walking and 4WD tours, scenic flight to Lake Eyre and overnight stop at Marree. Tours are priced from $4475 per person.
Etihad president and chief executive James Hogan has revealed the Abu Dhabi-based airline has been profitable for the second year running, finishing 2012 in the black. He confirmed the result to delegates at the Global Airfinance Conference in Dublin, with more details to be released next month.
Queensland tourism minister, Jann Stuckey, has launched the Queensland Drive Tourism Strategy in Bargara today, outlining 29 initiatives to help the state grow the drive market. The plan will be implemented over the next three years.
Sunshine Coast Destination Limited has launched a new campaign to grow visitor numbers in the traditionally soft month of February. The Find your perfect summer setting campaign will target regional Queenslanders through online activity, along with electronic direct mail and a television commercial.
Tempo Holidays is offering four nights for the price of three at the three star Hotel La Demeure in Paris. The offer is available on selected dates on bookings made before September 30.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
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