Successful NT Tourism mission leaves good impressions

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Matt Conlan, is encouraged by positive outcomes following a mission to Singapore to promote Territory tourism.

Mr Conlan lead a party of nine travel operators to Singapore to promote the Northern Territory as a tourist destination and hold high-level talks with Asian airlines including Singapore Airlines, Silk Air and Tiger Airways.

"The Mills Government is keen to secure additional aviation services and this was expressed in my meetings with the various airlines," Mr Conlan said.

"We want to foster stronger relationships with airlines and work with them to expand their services to the Territory.

"Territory tourism operators showcased their products at a travel expo, called NT Mission, which attracted crowds better than expected.

"These operators have fantastic products, and it's our job to help them increase their share in the global tourism market.

"With more than 300,000 Singaporeans visiting Australia last year it is important to show that the Territory is a destination not to be missed."

Mr Conlan addressed a media conference with 17 travel writers from daily newspapers to high end magazines to promote the Territory's product.

The media conference resulted in national coverage including a positive article on the Northern Territory in Singapore's national newspaper, The Straits Times, reaching over 300,000 readers.
"The Northern Territory is a wonderful place to visit and this mission assisted in conveying this to Singaporeans," Mr Conlan said.

"This is part of a re-engagement strategy with our Asian neighbours and we want to continue to encourage opportunities for tourism operators in future missions."

The operators which attended the mission are from AAT Kings, Darwin Central Hotel, Darwin Reef N Wrecks, Great Southern Rail, Marrakai Luxury All Suites, Nitmiluk Tours, On TourNT, SkyCity Darwin and Travel North.

Source: Accommodation Association of Australia, 25 January 2013