Lions Australia has confirmed it will hold its centenary celebrations in Hobart in 2017, one of the city’s biggest conferences to date.
The international celebration which will bring about 1600 people to Wrest Point in the Tasmanian capital from May 5 to 9, has been heralded a “major boost” for Tasmania’s tourism and hospitality sectors.
Lions National Convention 2017 chairman David Daniels said the annual events are used by many of its members as an opportunity to have a holiday, with many of the delegates expected to spend between 10 and 14 days in Hobart.
“We’ve already had an indication that 40 to 50 caravans will be coming across on the Spirit and they’ll be touring Tasmania while they’re here,” he said.
Business Events Tasmania chief executive Stuart Nettlefold said the conference alone would generate about $3 million for the local economy, with additional benefits to be created by delegates holidaying in the state before and after the convention.
“This is one of the biggest conferences ever held in Tasmania and it’s a fantastic opportunity for our accommodation providers, tourism operators and hospitality sector, especially as its taking place in the traditionally quieter shoulder period,” he said.
Meanwhile, Destination Southern Tasmania chief executive Melinda Anderson highlighted the importance of business events for the local visitor economy.
“Conference attendees are high yielding visitors spending on average $572 per day with a strong interest in pre and post event touring throughout our regional areas, extending the benefits of hosting these events far and wide and beyond the tourism industry,” she said.
“Not only do conference visitors have a high propensity (63%) to return to Tasmania to holiday but they become our ambassadors, with a strong intention to recommend others visit the state.”
