MICE guests staying longer at Uluru

The average length of stay for MICE guests at Ayers Rock Resort has risen significantly since it launched function facility Uluru Meeting Place.

Voyages Indigenous Tourism business events manager, Samantha Sefton, told The Nibbler that,  prior to the November opening of the facility, the average length of stay for meetings guests was around two nights. But seven months later, that figure has climbed.

"Since the redevelopment, the length of stay for our MICE visitors is getting up to three nights," she said.

"Business events guests have extended their stay on the back of our larger range of activities."

Meanwhile, managing director Koos Klein revealed a new golf course is on the cards, expected to deliver a further boost to the property's MICE business. 

The application has been lodged, and they expect to learn if permission has been granted by Christmas. If approved, the green is expected to be ready for use some time in 2015. 

The property has placed enormous importance on the business events sector, which it expects to account  for 20% of its overall business by next year, up from just 3%. 

The new Jetstar service to Ayers Rock Airport which launched on Tuesday is expected to contribute to that growth, with the airline targeting groups and professional conference organisers specifically.