South Australia has won the right to host the 2008 National Ecotourism Conference, in a major boost for the State’s nature-based tourism industry.
Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith says about 400 conference delegates will experience South Australia’s ecotourism experiences during the conference in November 2008.
“South Australia is already a leader in the field of ecologically sustainable tourism development, with around 15% of the nation’s Eco Certified tourism operators based here,” Dr Lomax-Smith says.
“Our 76 Eco Certified tourism experiences range from swimming with dolphins and cave diving to wine tasting and camel safaris through the Outback.”
“In addition, more than 20 percent of South Australia is set aside as reserves for conservation — a greater percentage than any other mainland State.”
“More than one million ‘nature-based’ tourists each year experience South Australia’s brilliant blend of bush, outback, coast and river, as well as the amazing animals and birds that live there.”
“Ecotourism is an industry with huge potential for growth, as increasing numbers of domestic and international travellers choose ‘green’ holiday experiences.”
“Ecotourism destinations now attract about 15 percent of the global tourist market and that number is climbing fast.”
Dr Lomax-Smith says the Rann Government is committed to supporting sustainable tourism development in this State, as well as marketing their credentials as a “green” holiday destination.
The 2008 National Ecotourism Conference will be hosted by Ecotourism Australia, the peak national body for the ecotourism industry.
Report by The Mole
