Building Capricorn Tourism Ambassadors
Posted on September 7th, 2015
On Thursday September 3 a group of front line tourism staff from Rockhampton and Capricorn Coast accommodation houses and tourism operations familiarised themselves with some of the region’s key hero experiences. The activity was designed to increase participant’s awareness of what the region has to offer, in order for them to become true ambassadors for the local area, and pass a new found passion on to visitors in their workplaces.
The familiarisation trip was organised by two of Capricorn’s tourism industry leaders, Ann Augusteyn of Capricorn Caves, and Gerry Bourke of Quest Rockhampton, after attending a Southern Great Barrier Reef Leaders Program in May this year. This program run by Tourism and Events Queensland, in conjunction with Capricorn Enterprise and Gladstone and Bundaberg Regional Tourism Organisations, took 30 identified leaders from within the Southern Great Barrier Reef destination and provided a platform to work collaboratively, engage in strengthening the tourism industry from the ground up, and inspire change.
The Leaders Program was the impetus for Ann and Gerry initiating Thursday’s trip. Ann says “the famil was most significant, with some of our front line staff in accommodation receptions having never been to Capricorn Caves or Great Keppel Island. Everyone was amazed at what was available in terms of accommodation, activities, and cruising options”.
Deanne Bowd of Capricorn Enterprise says, “we were really excited to see Ann and Gerry organise such a valuable activity to the industry. These staff are now in a perfect position to provide authentic, passionate, and educated recommendations to travellers staying in their businesses, giving visitors the opportunity to experience the true beauty of our region, and potentially encourage extended length of stay”.
The group of 16 were treated to experiences at Capricorn Caves and Great Keppel Island, including many associated activities available.
Gerry Bourke says, “it was wonderful to be able to collaborate with other businesses, and we can’t thank them enough for making this idea a reality. All were very supportive of the initiative, making the day a complete success”. Businesses who supported the day and were able to showcase their offerings were Sail Capricornia, GKI Hideaway, GKI Holiday Village, GKI Adventures, Freedom Fast Cats, Waterline Restaurant, and Capricorn Caves.
Ann says, “future famils are being planned to educate the staff who sell our magical region to visitors already in the Capricorn Region. Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll adds, “it’s really uplifting and encouraging to see our tourism industry embracing a true regional focus by collaborating in this way, and we’re excited to see what’s next”.
More information contact:
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll – 0417 669 286
Gerry Bourke 0448010816
Ann Augusteyn 4934 2883
