Australia to attend World Travel Market 2001

The Australian Tourist Commission (ATC) has announced it will lead an Australian delegation to the World Travel Market (WTM) in London next month.

ATC Managing Director, Ken Boundy said WTM provided a great opportunity to showcase Australia to the UK and European travel markets.

“The ATC had earlier this year decided not to attend WTM following a global review of all trade activities,” he said. “ However, we have reversed this decision given the impact of the attacks on the US on September 11 on the global tourism and the uncertainties in the travel industry climate.

“During difficult times it is important to support our industry partners in the UK and Australia. Our participation at WTM will send a strong message that we are continuing our promotional activities in the market and that we are positive about the future of inbound tourism to Australia.

“Response from the industry so far has been very positive, with 15 tourism product already committed to flying the Australian flag at WTM and we will continue to seek more participants over the next few weeks.

“The ATC and State and Territory Tourism Organisations will this year underwrite the costs of the Australia stand to assist our industry partners participate during difficult times.”

WTM is a four day annual tourism trade event and will this year be held from 12 - 15 November in London. It is expected that approximately 26,000 trade representatives (wholesalers and retailers) from UK and Europe will attend this year’s event.