A Sunday Telegraph report says that the Federal Government credits Princess Mary with increasing Danish tourism to Australia, with numbers passing 23,000 for the first time in the past year, up from 19,000 in 2003.
There has also been a 13 per cent increase in Danish backpackers working here.
Nearly 1400 visas were granted to Danish tourists in 2006-07, up from 1214 in 2005-06 and Denmark is the target of a new Tourism Australia marketing campaign.
A Government-funded 20-page colour publication on Aussie attractions is being distributed to more than 100,000 Danes this week.
Federal Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said the “Mary effect” had put Australia on the map in Scandinavia, adding, “Many tourists are keen to explore the country where Princess Mary grew up,” she said.
“Danish tourists are discovering the beauty of Australia and the friendliness of Australians.”
The guide distributed to Danes this week includes picturesque images from across Australia, including Tasmania, the Barossa Valley, Whitsunday Islands and the Great Ocean Road. Images of Sydney are also featured, including Bondi lifesavers and the Opera House.
Report by The Mole
