Concurrent Speakers 2013
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Concurrent Speakers 2012
Please find below the concurrent speakers biographies and abstracts for the 2012 Global Eco Conference.
Quick Links:
Sustainable Destination Management
Tourism in Terrestrial and Marine Protected Areas
Indigenous and Cultural Tourism
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Communities Benefiting from Strategic Partnerships
Optimising Tropical Ecotourism
Marketing Eco Wonders
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Sustainable Destination Management
Ms Leonie Bowles |
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Ecotourism in the Asia Pacific: A UNWTO Study of Best Practice See abstract under Dr. Lisa Ruhanen. Biography Ms Leonie Bowles is a Program Coordinator at Ecotourism Australia. Previously, she spent a year with the UNWTO in Madrid as an intern, during which time she initiated and co-authored a ‘Compendium of Best Practices and Guidelines for Ecotourism in Asia and the Pacific’. Since returning to Australia, she held a position as a Research Assistant/Project Officer for EC3 Global for 6 months. Leonie holds a Bachelor of International Hotel and Tourism Management with a double major in Event Management and Sports and Recreation Management from the University of Queensland. |
Mrs Sandrine Gaymard |
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Sustainable Investment: an essential ingredient for success This paper will showcase the importance of planned, well managed new and ongoing investment into tourism products to ensure viability and sustainable business growth, and overall growth of the tourism industry in Australia. Importantly the paper will help attendees to avoid business stagnation or decline through product development. In particular we will use the case example the of the multi-award winning TreeTop Adventure Park eco tourism product. Biography Sandrine Gaymard is the co-owner of TreeTop Adventure Park. TreeTop Adventure Park was formed to create unique, ecofriendly facilities within the trees. Holding a Master’s degree in Business Administration and having gained a wealth of experience within the Australian tourism industry, Sandrine was eager to put in all the hard work required to bring to fruition the dreams she and Frederic held. TreeTop Adventure Park has allowed over 130,000 customers to experience the thrill of swinging from one tree to the other. |
Mr Lal Gurung, |
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Sustainable Tourism Development in Annapurna Conservation Area, Nepal Annapurna Conservation Area is the first and the largest protected area in Nepal. It is exceptionally rich in natural heritages and biodeversity. It was first attempts to address environmental and livelihood issues by joining together local development aspirations and conservation needs in the region. The project serves as a model throughout Asia for integrating public participation in biodiversity conservation. ACAP takes a grassroots approach where traditional rights and local institutions are respected and the activities rely heavily on local participation, and local management of natural resources including that of tourism impacts. Tourism in Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA) is perceived as the most important activity in linking the conservation and developmental work with the socio-economic needs of the people thereby managing the resources important from the natural, cultural and socioeconomic point of view. For sustainable management of the tourism, two types of tourism development modalities are practiced in the ACA, such as the community based sustainable tourism in Manang, Mustang, Myagdi, Kaski and Lamjung and low volume high value tourism in Upper Mustang and Upper Manang (Nar-Phoo). This has been possible through the implementation of various tourism development activities carried out under the Tourism Management Programme (TMP). The Programmes include the reformation of local institutions - Tourism Management sub Committees (TMsCs), information dissemination, publication and production (sign posts for tourists, brochures printing etc), waste management, capacity building at local level, stakeholder awareness, promotion of alternative energy and fuel-efficient technologies in lodges, managing Visitor Information Centers and check posts, upgrading tourism related services & infrastructure, accreditation of tourism business, surveys of new trekking destinations and visitor perception and monitoring. Biography Mr. Lal Prasad Gurung is a Project Director of the Annapurna Conservation Area (ACA). ACA is the first conservation area and the largest protected area in Nepal and is the most popular trekking destination in Nepal receiving over 100,000 international tourists a year. He has been Project Director since 2006. Mr. Gurung holds Diploma in Parks, Recreation and Tourism Management from Lincoln University, New Zealand (1989) and a Master in Natural Resource Management from University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom (1996). His research interests include sustainable development, biodiversity, sustainable tourism management and ecosystem services. |
Mr Michael Matulick |
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Soap Aid Today across the globe 2.6 billion people lack adequate sanitation. As a direct result, it is estimated that 1.8 million children under the age of 5 die each year due to hygiene relates illnesses. One of the major causes of childhood deaths is diarrhoea. By the simple act of hand washing with a bar of soap we could potentially reduce the number of diarrhoea cases by over 40 per cent. In an effort to prevent these needless deaths, we hope to collect waste soap from hotels worldwide and send them to a central processing plant where we will re-process the discarded soaps and turn them back into new, useful bars of soap that will save lives. We then re-distribute the recycled soap products, along with educational materials, where it is most needed in impoverished countries worldwide, and domestic homeless shelters and other areas where there is an urgent need for sanitisation. Biography Michael Matulick is one of Australia’s new generations of leaders, educated at Monash University with a Bachelor of Business majoring in marketing, he has over 15 years’ experience in the global hospitality industry. |
Mr Bruce Rampton |
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Sustainable Destination Management: The best of both worlds or do we throw away the key? Governments play a significant role in the conservation of our natural and cultural assets. Likewise governments have a responsibility to the welfare of their constituents. This situation creates a quandary of balancing use and total protection through restriction on access and use. Recently the Queensland Government and the Queensland Tourism Council signed an agreement to build tourism in this state. As part of this agreement both parties committed “to protect and present Queensland’s unique natural and cultural heritage values.” Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS) is entrusted with ensuring this agreement reflecting the range of interests of locals, visitors and partners and the economy of the state is embedded in a sustainable management regime. This regime builds on recognising the State’s protected areas as key destinations for people the world over and supports a range of recreational and commercial activities suited to the needs of people and the environment. In the Wet Tropics of Queensland, QPWS has a symbiotic relationship with a range of partners to provide both a world class destination for eco - tourists and locals and an environment which will sustain their visitation and use. QPWS is building their management regime on a basis of expanding on the values and uses of protected areas and encouraging users and interests groups to participate in their management. This in itself provides another dimension to sustainable destination management. This paper reflects on broadening the values of protected areas and provides examples of current QPWS initiatives to sustainable management our unique destinations. Bruce Rampton in his role as Team Leader, Engagement currently manages partnership, engagement and communication functions within the Wet Tropics Region of Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. His education, community-based natural resource management, small business and national park backgrounds blend to develop skills in inclusive sustainable management and use of protected areas. Working within QPWS and situated in the Wet Tropics of Queensland World Heritage Area Bruce’s role focuses on achieving legislative conservation outcomes while supporting a range of interests. The Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and the adjoining Great Barrier Reef Marine Park have built their names internationally as natural wonders. Recently the area has expanded from being predominately a sightseeing destination to a growing interest as an experience destination. This adds challenges to sustainable use. Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service is looking to strong partnerships with protected area users to enable a sustainable and inclusive management regime. |
Mr Brad Towle |
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Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau The Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau (TCKTB) is a tiny office with a huge mission, to develop and promote Japan's remote spiritual heartland, into a quality, sustainable tourism destination open to the world. The Kumano region represents a unique cultural landscape, part of the World Heritage property "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range". Through strategically planned projects with a diversity of stakeholders, the TCKTB strives to build a strong foundation for a sustainable future by focusing on preservation, cultivating human resources, and developing effective tourism systems. Grassroots development initiatives include innovative training seminars, and the Kumano Travel Community Reservation System, a bilingual website for local businesses to connect with the growing online market. A pioneering joint promotion project with the Turismo de Santiago de Compostela successfully joins the Way of St. James and the Kumano Kodo, the only two pilgrimage routes registered as World Heritage. Biography Brad Towle is the International Tourism Promotion and Development Director for the Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau, the only non-Japanese working as a director in a tourism association in Japan. He is one of its founding members and influential in creating a new model for community-based tourism focused on grassroots development and sustainable practices. As a foreigner working in the Japanese government, he has a unique perspective on tourism in rural Japan, both its positive points and challenges. Originally from Canada, Brad previously worked in the Canadian Rockies as a professional hiking and ski guide. He has been living on and off in Japan for over 13 years. |
Mr Simon Troman |
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Clean Energy for Eco Tourism The cost of diesel continues to rise, while the emissions from diesel based electricity generation are amongst the highest and most intense from any electricity generation. One industry most adversely affected by the rising costs and emissions is the Eco Tourism industry, through both the high cost of diesel fuel and the reputational risk of having noisy fossil fuel generation in often pristine locations. Over the last few years the capital cost of solar power has fallen significantly, while at the same time the industry has developed much improved integration of solar power into small operations. This presentation will take you though the options and likely costs to change from 100% fossil fuel, and cover the issues and risks. A couple of real world case studies will demonstrate the potential of RE technology to improve the economics AND the customer experience. Biography Simon Troman is the Managing Director of IT Power Australia. He has been in the RE industry for over 20 years, and has worked in southern Africa, India, Japan, Samoa, Fiji and New Zealand, as well as throughout Australia. Simon is also the Chair of the Ocean Energy Industry Association and a past VP of the Australian Solar Energy Society. Simon has also held a number of board positions in the commercial sector. IT Power is a leading consulting firm in the renewable energy sector, undertaking projects in the Pacific, Afghanistan and throughout Australia. Our projects to displace diesel range in size from small household scale systems to the 1MW Tokelau off grid power system. |
Communities Benefiting from Strategic Partnerships
Mr Russell Boswell |
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Strategic partnerships: World Heritage Management and tour guiding in the Wet Tropics Please refer to abstract under Paul Chantrill. Biography Russel Boswell is manager of the highly successful Savannah Guides network and association. He has been leading efforts to build professional networks of tour guides with a collective in-depth knowledge of the natural and cultural assets of Northern Australia. Russell works with many of Australia's leading tourism, environmental and community organisations in pursuit of the highest standards of guiding. |
Mr Dan Butt |
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China Ready Case Study In 2011, AVANA, in partnership with Ecotourism Australia and Spirit of China, were awarded T-QUAL funding from the Department of Resources, Energy and Tourism to develop a China Ready training program for the Australian ecotourism industry. Designed for anyone involved in cultural or nature based tourism, this training program helps Australian operators adapt their product to suit the Chinese market.
This case study aims to provide an insight into the China Ready workshop carried out with Paul and Barbara at Silky Oaks Lodge in Queensland with specific reference to the training outcomes and relevance for their business. Dan is the general manager of AVANA Tourism. |
Dr Paul Chantrill |
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Strategic partnerships: World Heritage Management and tour guiding in the Wet Tropics As part of its dialogue with stakeholders and government agencies in the tourism sector, the Wet Tropics Management Authority (WTMA) has been increasingly focused and supportive of practical ways of enhancing professionalism and standards of presentation for tour guides in the Wet Tropics. WTMA has always been committed to promoting the highest levels of presentation and the focus on exploring ways to promote systems of accreditation and training has been brought into sharper focus in recent years supported by the National Long Term Tourism Strategy and Accreditation frameworks of the Commonwealth Government. Our aims are to Improve Tour Guide knowledge of the Wet Tropics World Heritage Area and its values and build relationships between Tour guides and protected Area Managers through shared field experiences. WTMAs new Strategic Plan elevates the focus on the tourism partnerships as a core element of work to promote enjoyment, access and benefits for all from the World Heritage area. It is enriching for the wider community and to visitors as we focus our project work on increasing the quality of visitor experiences with flow on benefits in increased visitation. There are economic benefits for the region as a whole well follow an overall approach which provides career paths for individual guides, local businesses and operators and Rainforest Aboriginal people. Earlier this year the Wet Tropics established a cooperative arrangement with Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) to contract with Industry Accreditation training providers develop three units of training to support the training of guides drawing on Wet Tropics specific content. The course developed and delivered by Industry Accreditation group targets Wet Tropics based guides to ensure they are supported to enhance their presentation skills and knowledge and competencies based on the three areas of: 1. Knowledge of the environment and the biodiversity of the Wet Tropics Region 2. An appreciation of protocols and issues relating to working in the cultural landscapes of the Wet Tropics with its 18 with prevailing Rainforest Aboriginal tribal groupings. 3. A practical element to raise the standard of the interpretation skills delivered by tour guides, as they impart to guests of the Wet Tropics. This has now been followed up with a collaborative partnership with Savannah Guides to run field schools and further networking opportunities for tour guides of the Wet Tropics (an extension of the Savannah Guides model). The overwhelming response to the course has lead to the development of further development of this course has been a response to WTMAs policy commitment to developing presentation standards in the Wet Tropics. In addition to the course we are seeking to bold a more comprehensive program of support and partnership with tour guides and operators. We have with RRRC produce and supplied a Tour Guide Handbook for the Wet Tropics and we web based materials and resources supported by collection of additional resources, topical topics publications, events and education nights, features articles and update on science research, a Facebook networking site to support the sharing of information and resources. This spirit of cooperation and partnership is helping to build the Wet Tropics as a quality tourism destination which is enriching for visitors and also helps protect and present the outstanding natural values that attract visitors. Increasingly through partnerships we see and rely on guides in the role as the genuine presenters of the Wet tropics World heritage area and its values. Biography Paul Chantrill is Manager for Communities and Partnerships, We Tropics Management Authority. Paul has been committed to ensuring that the World Heritage Area is presented to visitors and valued by the community. He has been working on building relationships with the tourism industry, supporting the Wet Tropics National Landscape program and exploring options for the establishment of a World Heritage Gateway for the city of Cairns. |
Mr. Francisco Dousdebes |
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Mashpi Lodge: a cloud forest gem Amongst the worldwide known biodiversity of tropical cloud forests, Mashpi Lodge brings in a new concept of exploring, understanding, and appreciating an immensely rich natural resource. Guests become advocates of conservation once they understand how the forest integrates the local community and its surrounding habitats. Protecting this region through ecotourism is a far more realistic option than any other extractive use of tropical forests. In 2000 he was given the responsibility of leading the Galapagos Expedition Department of Ecuador’s largest tour operator, Metropolitan Touring, where he was in charge of developing the expedition philosophy, managing Naturalist Guides and training the sales staff of his company and clients all over the Americas. For many years, Francisco led the Environmental Affairs Department of Ecuador’s Metropolitan Touring and designed sustainable strategies that allowed minimizing the environmental footprint of tour operations, as well as corporate development. In 2009, he was a finalist in the Heart of Green Awards because of his environmental leadership. Attending international trade shows, fairs, and seminars has allowed him to understand the industry even further, as he represents his country in international forums with Ecuador’s Ministry of Tourism. He also lectures on natural history of Ecuador & the Galapagos Islands, and focuses on natural selection, evolution, and sustainable tourism. Travelling has become a passion for him, and when free time lands on his hands, he is likely to have already arrived at his next destination. Currently, Francisco is the Commercial Manager for three key markets in Ecuador’s inbound tourism: Australia, New Zealand, and Canada, and loves to promote the beauty of South America worldwide. |
Mr Tim Harvey |
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Making a Splash: Conservation Partnerships for Sea Turtle Conservation Delaware North Corporation, owners of Heron Island Resort, have partnered with the Sea Turtle Foundation to provide a rare experience for visitors to the resort to interact with endangered sea turtles while providing funding for sea turtle conservation. Resort guests enjoy turtle talks and go on guided tours to see nesting/hatching events, led by an experienced marine biologist. In return, guests donate to STF via an optional room charge, which allows STF to run monitoring and education programs throughout the state. The partnership raises awareness of issues facing sea turtles, provides memorable resort experiences for the guests, and supports marine conservation via a local, on-the-ground organisation. This partnership can serve as a model for other resorts with access to eco wonders to collaborate with local conservation efforts to protect those resources that attract tourism. Biography Tim Harvey has over 40 years environmental, scientific and educational experience. Diverse interests and an enquiring mind have led Tim down many different paths, including teaching, business consultancy, management training, mountaineering, whitewater rafting and sea kayaking instructing, and scientific discovery. He has recently finished three and a half years as the manager of the Heron Island Research Station in the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, one of the world's premier tropical marine research facilities and is a founding director of the Sea Turtle Foundation charity. He is a firm believer in building partnerships between business, education, charities and government as a way of addressing the challenges facing the environment. Tim has travelled extensively and is continually amazed at the world's diversity. If he has a guiding principle it is that life is too short to be bored. Curiosity keeps you sane and is a lot of fun, and you never know what is around the corner…..so go look! |
Ms Emma Knezevic |
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A Shared Journey: Australia's National Landscapes Program Australia’s National Landscapes Program, lead in partnership by Parks Australia and Tourism Australia, is a national long term strategic approach to tourism and conservation in Australia’s most outstanding natural and cultural environments. The Kimberley, Ningaloo-Shark Bay, the Great South West Edge, Australia’s Red Centre, Australia’s Timeless North, Greater Blue Mountains, Flinders Ranges, Australia’s Green Cauldron, Australian Alps, the Great Ocean Road, Australia’s Coastal Wilderness, Kangaroo Island and Great Barrier Reef are all part of the Program. The Programs core strength is the linkages established between stakeholders, encouraging partnerships between all levels of government, the tourism and conservation sectors, community organisations and regional development bodies. Collaboration across stakeholder groups is leading to a unified approach to destination development, environmental protection, quality visitor experiences and marketing. Across the National Landscapes, there are many examples of partnerships that have brought together amazing people and remarkable minds to do things differently. These partnerships focus on achieving agreed priorities that have been identified to create positive outcomes for conservation and tourism. This presentation will share highlights, challenges and case studies from partnerships established through the National Landscapes Program. Biography Emma is the Senior Tourism Officer for Parks Australia, working as a program co-manager of Australia's National Landscapes Program, in partnership with Tourism Australia. This is an exciting role that involves working with 16 of Australia's outstanding tourism regions to increase benefits to conservation from tourism, and strengthen tourism outcomes within those regions. Emma has worked in the field of outdoor recreation, ecotourism and sustainable tourism planning, development and marketing since 1999, working in Queensland initially for the Department of Natural Resources and Tourism Queensland's Sustainable Tourism Department. Emma then moved to Falls Creek Alpine Resort where she held the position of Marketing Manager and was responsible for re-positioning the resort as a sustainable all-seasons resort. Emma has also worked as a lecturer at Charles Sturt University, as a Project Officer for Bonegilla Migrant Experience and as an independent consultant in the field of sustainable tourism planning and development. Emma has twice been elected to the board of Ecotourism Australia. |
Dr Scott Richardson |
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Noosa Biosphere Limited's Partnership Model The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisations (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program (MAB) designated the former Noosa Shire boundary as a biosphere region in September 2007. It was a first for Queensland. Biosphere reserves develop quality economies based on local community action and entrepreneurship, sound science, public-private sector partnerships and networks. Noosa Biosphere Limited (NBL) is a company owned by the Sunshine Coast Regional Council and directed by a voluntary Governance Board, with members drawn from Council and various Community Sector Boards. NBL liaises closely with council and provides community input to inform policy and strategy development. This paper will examine the strategies NBL is utilising to develop strategic collaborations to ensure maximum benefits for all parties, as well as ensure the sustainable future of the tourism industry and the environment in the Biosphere Region. Biography Dr. Scott Richardson is the Head of Tourism and Hospitality Programs at Central Queensland University. He obtained his doctorate degree in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Griffith University. His thesis focused on the experience of students working in the tourism and hospitality industry whilst studying for their undergraduate degree. Scott also holds a Master of International Tourism and Hospitality Management, a Bachelor of Hotel Management (Hons.) and a Bachelor of Business (Event Management). Scott also has extensive industry knowledge having worked in the hotel, tourism and events industries. Scott is currently a member of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Panel of Tourism Experts, advising the UNWTO on issues related to tourism policy and planning. His research interests are ecotourism, human resource management, sport tourism, event tourism, and special interest tourism. |
Ms Anna Ryan |
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The Evolution of the Hunter Wetlands Centre towards a Ramsar listed wetlands and Ecotourism Destination through local Community Partnerships and the Department of Education The Hunter Wetlands Centre has a 27 year history that began in 1984 as a handshake partnership with the Department of Education and a number of other local community conservation groups. With a focus that begin as a local project to rehabilitate a degraded swamp area that was once used as a dump and abandoned sporting grounds; the Hunter Wetlands Centre has evolved to become a key award winning ecotourism destination in the Newcastle area. This paper will explore the development of the relationships with the Department of Education and other local organisations; of how they were pivotal in steering and supporting the Hunter Wetlands Centre towards attaining their Ramsar listing status which prompted the development of their ecotourism focus. This discussion will also highlight the challenges of maintaining good relationships and finding a balance between tourism and the needs of invested groups (including Hunter Region Landcare, Hunter Bird Observers and the Australian Plant Society and others) while taking advantage of opportunities for funding and product development to ensure the longevity and financial stability of the centre. Biography Ecotourism Manager for the Hunter Wetlands Centre since early 2009, Anna worked in Sydney as a theatrical agent and in community organisations with unemployed before studying Sociology/ Law at the University of Newcastle. After a break to have children she commenced work at the Hunter Wetlands Centre which requires balancing community engagement, environmental conservation and events & tourism. While living in Canada in 1994, Anna spent some time helping to construct boardwalk trails near Tofino on Vancouver Island which she rates as a highlight amongst a wide range of travel experiences. |
Tourism in Terrestrial and Marine Protected Areas
Dr Galal Afifi |
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Geotourism as a Potential Tourism Concept in Oman According to several international entities (e.g. United Nations Environmental Programme, UNEP 2011), Oman is amongst the forefront Arabic countries concerning environment conservation and enhancement. In the same sense, Oman is aware of the possibility of managing nature for achieving economic benefits mainly through tourism. Therefore, geotourism emerges as a promising opportunity for Oman especially when considering the diversity of its geological features, which include a variety of mountains, caves, deserts, oases, valleys and a lengthy coastline. Accordingly, this research aims to illustrate the current geological attractions in Al Jabal Al Akhdar as one of the foremost tourist destinations upon which Oman relies to improve its tourism competence. The research will then proceed to suggest major principles of developing geotourism in the area. Biography Galal Afifi is Assistant Professor of Tourism Marketing and Event Management at Sultan Qaboos University, Oman. His Ph.D. in Event Management is from the University of Wales, UK. His research interests focus on tourism education and tourism marketing in Egypt and Oman. Galal published several articles in numerous international journals |
Ms Aileen Bell |
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Reach for the Stars Warrumbungle Shire is host to the Siding Spring Observatory, Australia's largest optical astronomy facility. Located adjacent to Warrumbungle National Park, Siding Spring is very dependant on responsible planning conditions within the shire and while we fight to maintain a pollution free sky to ensure sound research outcomes, we also need to be conscious of conservation values for our wildlife - circadian rhythms, life cycles. Tourism promotion within these constraints are addressed by an empathetic locally based committee. Aileen Bell is Manager of Tourism and Economic Development for Warrumbungle Shire; her background has been in education as a lobbyist and she has managed eco related tourism operations including the Visitor Services and Guiding Program of Warrumbungle National Park. Aileen has an interest in the arts and served as a director on the Board of Regional Arts NSW and Orana Arts. She has been instrumental in presenting national and international artist performances in Coonabarabran and more recently the Warrumbungles and open spaces. As a local farmer, and active in conservation issues, she has taken a strong position on the need to balance planning and tourism with conservation. |
Mr John Cameron |
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Islands in the sun: Island-specific design Based around a case study for a project on Moreton Island, the third largest sand island in Queensland, this presentation highlights some of the key constraints and opportunities for development in a remote island context. John Cameron has practiced architecture since 1991, driven by a passion for environmental design to create buildings that are not only comfortable to occupy but that also make fewer demands on our natural resources. |
Dr Claire Ellis |
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Managing the growth in voluntourism Voluntourism has seen a significant growth over the last 10 years. Much of the research has focussed on the motivations of participants and the extent real outcomes have been produced, whether in community development or environmental/ heritage conservation. Land managers are often used to working and supporting local community volunteers including schools and educational organisations, and now need to consider how this new type of volunteering fits in the mix of volunteering and tourism. This is not always easy. For tourism operators, often with strong eco-values, deciding whether to branch into this area can also be difficult. Understanding the potential issues and benefits from each others perspective will help all stakeholders consider if, when, and how to partner in this niche. Claire grew up in Tasmania, but also spent 14 years living and working overseas, mostly in Indonesia, Vietnam, China, USA, and within Australia in Perth, Darwin and Canberra as well as Tasmania. During this time Claire started and ran her own tourism business - a charter expedition cruise ship company travelling to remote little visited locations in Eastern Indonesia and specialising in local culture and the marine environment. She also spent nearly three years working for the Indonesian office of the World Wide Fund for Nature, and worked extensively as a consultant mostly in tourism. Claire also wrote two non-fiction books as well as numerous magazine articles. Claire subsequently worked at the University of Tasmania lecturing in the Tourism Program for four years and completed a PhD examining an area within volunteer tourism, before joining Tourism Tasmania as Director, Infrastructure and Industry Development. During her six years in Tourism Tasmania Claire has worked closely with key projects including the selection and development of the Three Capes Track, the development of the Digital Coach program supporting our tourism industrys shift into the digital environment and Chaired the National Long Term Tourism Strategy Destination Management Planning Working Group. |
Dr Martin Fluker |
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The value to public land management agencies in having tourists voluntarily submit environmental monitoring data Three public land management agencies (Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water, & the CCMA) are surveyed in relation to the value they perceive in having tourists visiting their sites voluntarily contribute photographic images of fragile natural environments using an innovative fixed photo point system. The main findings from this Victorian case study include increasing community engagement, having an effective early warning system of emerging dangers, showcasing environmental improvement strategies, & being able to retain an historical image bank. Dr Fluker has been lecturing in Tourism at Victoria University for 14 years and has research interests related to nature-based and adventure tourism. |
Dr Ronda Green |
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Wildlife Tourism Australia An essential component of protected areas both to tourism and to biodiversity is the wildlife. At the national workshop marking the 10th anniversary of Wildlife Tourism Australia Inc., participants engaged in many enthusiastic discussions on what we would like to see in the coming decade and how to make it happen. Our wish-list included better protection for species, habitats and places that give a sense of wilderness and wonder, better recognition of the importance of wildlife in tourism in regional and local areas, better recognition of the value of good guiding and readily-accessible training for guides in wildlife interpretation, better understanding of the psychology of tourists seeking wildlife encounters, an environmental ethics framework for wildlife tourism, more natural history in schools (including field trips into natural or semi-natural areas), a network of operators involved in conservation-related research, and a cutting of unnecessary red tape that hinders some small operators. Ronda holds a PhD in zoology and is an adjunct research fellow with Environmental Futures, Griffith University, focusing on seed dispersal by animals and effects of habitat modification on wildlife, but has also been involved in wildlife tourism and general nature interpretation for several decades, runs the multi-award-winning Araucaria Ecotours, specialising in wildlife tours from Brisbane (all tours have achieved advanced ecp-accreditation), and is developing the solar-powered Scenic Rim Wildlife Ecology Centre and associated nature trails. She has conducted research projects for the WIldlife Sector of the Sustainable Tourism CRC and is currently chair of WIldlife Tourism Australia Inc. |
Ms. Anne Greentree |
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Unlocking Opportunities for Ecotourism in National Parks The recent change in State government in Queensland has meant a great deal of change for the management of Queensland's national parks. Once regarded as the pioneer in ecotourism, Queensland is positioning itself to ride this wave once more. On the back of an industry-wide forum with tourism operators, the government is progressing significant reforms that will foster the development of innovative ecotourism experiences that will be uniquely 'Queensland'. Strategies include reviewing legislation governing national parks, creating a streamlined and contemporary management system, a fresh vision through a new Queensland Ecotourism Plan and ongoing close consultation with ecotourism operators. This presentation will highlight the aspirations and challenges that lie ahead. Anne has a diverse range of experience from over 15 years in a range of visitor-related positions in the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and close to 10 years in the community sector prior to working for the Queensland State Government. With more than 5 years as the Director for Commercial and Visitor Services, a key aspiration has been to forge a stronger partnership between industry and government to enhance national parks and visitor experiences of them. Extensive travel, particularly off the beaten track, has resulted in a taste for unique experiences that make for life-long memories and plenty of smiles! Anne holds a Masters of Business and Technology. |
Mr James Newman |
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Protecting the Experience: Boodjamulla By improving access to our protected areas we enable the connecting of people with nature. The QPWS have just completed a $3.2M upgrade of visitor and management infrastructure which included redeveloping interpretive components to highlight the main attraction – Lawn Hill Gorge. The Waanyi aboriginal people have special connections with Boodjamulla – the name of the rainbow serpent story for the gorge – and this has become a focus for the interpretive experience. While planning the redevelopment, it became apparent that the water based trail through the gorge is a high priority trail to manage correctly for the future. Through anecdotal visitor feedback, the remote quiet visitor experience is paramount. With increasing visitation, the challenge for the future for QPWS is to manage the serpent trail to ensure that this experience is protected but also find ways that a definitive experience can be used to enhance opportunities in the gorge and across the broader park. James is a Executive Director with the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service. His role is to provide leadership and management direction for Queensland’s terrestrial protected area estate outside of the south east corner. His area boasts diverse properties and features, with small high use urban and peri-urban parks, remote wilderness areas with great rivers, arid deserts of inland Australia, rich forests, spectacular waterfalls, impressive canyons and gorges, World Heritage listed areas, Ramsar listed wetlands and a vast coastline with many unique plants and animals endemic to those regions. |
Dr. Bruce Prideaux |
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Understanding Great Barrier Reef Visitors The Great Barrier Reef (GBR) is facing a number of future threats that may reduce its attractiveness as a tourism attraction. High on the threat agenda is climate change and beyond that there are threats posed from the increasing number of vessels servicing the mining industry, potential decline in water quality for dredging associated with the growing coal export trade and a possible new Crown of Thorns plague. If the quality of the GBR experience is reduced it can be expected that visitors will consider alternative destinations or alternative experiences in destinations that currently serve as GBR gateways. To counter potential changes in the attractiveness of the GBR it is essential that key stake holders understand who the current visitors are and what values they derive form a reef experience. The research reported in this paper profiles GBR visitors in Cairns and identifies those quality of the reef that are the most attractive to them and which they are most satisfied with. It also offers an assessment tool that may be used to develop adaption strategies to counter expected changes in the attractiveness of the GRB as a visitor attraction. Biography Bruce holds the position of Professor of Marketing and Tourism Management at James Cook University, Australia. He heads a team of 8 PhD researchers and a number of visiting scholars and is actively engaged in climatic change research with a particular interest in its impacts on coral reef systems and rainforests. He has authored over 200 journal articles, book chapters and conference papers on a range of issues related to tourism including issues related to protected areas such as the Great Barreir Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. |
Mrs Leesa Riley, |
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Voluntourism in Victoria's Protected Areas Victorias protected areas make up some of the most attractive locations for travellers. Through an innovative tourism, conservation and protected area partnership, Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA) and Parks Victoria (PV) have developed an industry first, state based initiative engaging travellers in protected areas while contributing to essential research and conservation. Leesa joined CVA in 2004 after the completion of a Masters in Environmental Management at University of Queensland. Leesa was the Regional Manager of CVA Melbourne office for 3 years prior to taking on the role in 2009 of Project Manager for the Conservation Volunteers Parks Victoria partnership. Leesa has experience in developing and delivering community focussed volunteer and voluntourism products across both Australia and South Africa that contribute to essential conservation and monitoring programs.. |
Indigenous and Cultural Tourism
Mr Alan Briggs, |
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National Trust experiences and opportunities for Indigenous and Cultural Tourism The National Trust of Australia (WA) has previously implemented, and has ongoing, Indigenous and Cultural tourism programs that offer a model for future programs. Aboriginal families have been assisted to develop and establish their own style of programs involving Traditional Owners (elders and youth), experienced professionals supporting field visits and students have also been able to participate in several interactive field visits with the Gabbi Kylie Foundation on the South Coast of Western Australia. Strategic partnerships such as this can pave the way for the future where some communities struggle for recognition and can rise from strength to strength within a positive partnership. This presentation will focus on the National Trust model as part of a PhD research study being undertaken by the author into social contribution to the community by non-government organisations such as the National Trust. Alan has lectured for over 12 years in tourism at Edith Cowan University and is an Adjunct Lecturer at the Joondalup Campus. In 2011 Alan commenced at Murdoch University lecturing in Sustainable Tourism and in 2012 became a PhD candidate while continuing to lecture in tourism. |
Ms Sonya Jeffrey |
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Marketing the 'Champions' of Indigenous Tourism See abstract under Kristi O'Brien Biography A strong Jirrbal Rainforest Aboriginal woman, Sonya Jeffrey and her family are surging forward with their new enterprise Ingan Tours into the global scene of the tourism industry. |
Ms Kristi O'Brien |
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Marketing the 'Champions' of Indigenous Tourism Now in its third year, the Indigenous Tourism Champions Program (ITCP) is continuing to evolve to meet the needs of industry, trade and consumers. Tourism Australia (TA) and Indigenous Business Australia (IBA) are working with the State and Territory Tourism Organisations, to grow and develop the ITCP to improve the marketability and promotion of the Indigenous tourism sector. Kristi O’Brien from TA will provide an overview of the planned program developments, and Sonya Jeffrey from Ingan Tours - one of the Indigenous Tourism Champion’s will co-present to share a personal insight into how the program is helping them to grow and market their business. TA will share information on the current and planned marketing activity for the Indigenous Tourism Champions, which includes the launch of a new trade website www.aboriginaltourism.australia.com and development of a range of visual assets which are being used to promote Indigenous experiences directly to consumers through social media and other campaigns. Biography Kristi O'Brien has over 15 years of experience in the tourism industry and is now Tourism Australia's Experiences Project Manager – Indigenous Tourism. For the past four years at Tourism Australia she has delivered a number of innovative programs including working with Indigenous Business Australia to develop the Indigenous Tourism Champions Program. This has ensured a whole of government approach to Indigenous tourism development within an agreed framework, enabling Tourism Australia to facilitate the building of strong and lasting relationships. Kristi has worked extensively in the private sector and has brought this entrepreneurial drive, enthusiasm and strategic focus to her role at Tourism Australia instigating projects such as the highly successful Indigenous tourism photo shoot which is one of the most downloaded collections in the Tourism Australia Image Library. Her trade networks have facilitated the delivery of some very high profile Indigenous Tourism Trade Events which have been instrumental in shifting perceptions and improving awareness of the diversity of awesome Indigenous experiences on offer in Australia. Kristi has worked in Product Development for two ITO's, a Wholesaler and Tourism NT, giving her direct experience in all sectors of the global supply chain. In 1998 Kristi was integral in setting up a specialist Inbound Tour Operator which has grown to be at the forefront sales and marketing of Indigenous experiences in Australia and overseas. Kristi sits on the Indigenous Government Forum Panel and the Indigenous Tourism Industry Advisory Panel. She holds a Bachelor of Business (Tourism) and a Graduate Diploma in Entrepreneurship and Innovation. She developed a passion for Indigenous tourism following extensive travels where she immersed herself in a range of cultural experiences around the world, and across Australia. |
Ms Gabrielle Widders |
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Bangaboui: together we will paddle See presentation outline under Melinda Loe Gabi Widders is currently acting in the Aboriginal Interpretation Officer role for the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority. She is responsible for Sydney Learning Adventures Aboriginal programs, mentoring and training the Aboriginal guide team and assisting and advising on Aboriginal interpretation in the Sydney Harbour Foreshore Authority precincts. |
Optimising Tropical Ecotourism
Ms Pam Birkett, |
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The Daintree Discovery Centre - a practical model for committed ecotourism operators Community-based Carbon Offset in practice At the Daintree Discovery Centre we share our passion for environmental conservation with >85,000 visitors pa. DDC is located in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest; the site was chosen for its extraordinary bio-diversity, the infrastructure was designed to be ecologically responsible, buildings were constructed around trees rather than remove them, walkways are elevated to protect fragile root systems and wildlife corridors are assiduously maintained. Everything we do reinforces the need to preserve this very special World Heritage area – including our innovative Carbon Offset Bio-sequestration program. As a Director of the multi-award winning Daintree Discovery Centre, Pam is passionate about environmental conservation. Having built the Discovery Centre from scratch 23 years ago, Pam and her husband Ron, have developed a wealth of practical experience in ecotourism and are always keen to share their knowledge, skills and successes with others. |
Mrs Jenine Drayton |
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Cairns brand new 6 star Eco accommodation that doesn't cost the earth To further enhance our spectacular natural location we have constructed brand new accommodation complete with solar power & return to grid capabilities, solar hot water, led lighting, educational points which empower guests to be energy wise if they choose & Australia's first bike powered generator for guests mobile devices. These 6 star sustainability rated accommodation units are the first for Cairns & offer a very affordable choice for guests & families wanting to indulge in a holiday experience that has the added feature of not costing the Earth either! Our stunningly unique location is surrounded by World Heritage rain-forest yet 15 minutes to Cairns City & the airport. Worldwide, people's environmental awareness & ways of adopting best practice for minimal earth impact is growing at a rapid rate. We see the way forward for tourism to be having a large emphasis on Eco and sustainable accommodation. For Establishments and Tour Companies who encourage guests education and appreciation for local natural attributes in the region they are holidaying in. Innovation for sustainability is a precious commodity to the future growth trends in accommodation and a good strategy for long term business insight. Both Russell and I have owned and operated BIG4 Cairns Crystal Cascades for the past 16 years. Our 4 1/2 star park is well recognized in the caravan and wider tourism industry as being an outstanding establishment offering first class facilities, excellent customer service and an emphasis on our spectacular natural location. Through education and continual improvement we are seen as innovators and leaders in the caravan industry whilst remaining loyal to our park's market and natural environment. Extensive travelling has provided us with a great insight to trends and emerging developments before they arise. |
Marketing Eco Wonders
Ms Linda Cash, |
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Christmas Island : A Natural Wonder Christmas Island is an Island of stark contrasts - A Natural Wonder where 63% of the Island is National Park encompassing 2 RAMSAR wetlands, a marine park with over 70kms of coastline and more endemic species than any other Australian protected area - yet in recent years its seen the worst of human misadventure, days so dark they shocked Australia to its very core. Linda lived and worked on Christmas Island for 10 years and has been responsible for the destination marketing of Christmas Island as a nature based tourism product for the past 6 years through her role with the Christmas Island Tourism Association. An avid diver, underwater photographer, and nature enthusiast, Lindas approach to marketing tourism for the Island comes from her heart. She has a deep passion for the Island's unique qualities and developing part of its economic future in eco-tourism. |
Mr Jesse Desjardins, |
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3 million Facebook fans can’t be wrong: a case study on how Tourism Australia is using social media to drive advocacy Social media and advocacy has quickly become deeply integrated into Tourism Australia’s marketing activities, including the latest phase of its ‘There’s nothing like Australia’ global campaign. Advocacy is a powerful tool in tourism marketing and Tourism Australia has worked hard to gain a leadership position in this space. Few realize that the golden age of tourism marketing is now and that we are entering an exciting period of innovation, creativity, reach and relevance largely driven by social media. This session will cover:
Biography Jesse is an adopted Aussie. Since arriving from Canada in 2006 on a Working Holiday Visa he has become one of Australia’s biggest fans, which is fitting that he now manages Tourism Australia’s social media and advocacy programs - including Australia’s largest Facebook page with over 3 million fans. Prior to working at Tourism Australia, Jesse was the Online Director at Global Gossip. He has consulted with tourism boards in South Africa, Jordan and Denmark, but still prefers Australia. |
Prof Ross Dowling, |
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Marketing Geological Wonders Geotourism fosters interest in the geo-environment. As a form of tourism it is growing rapidly far outstripping the growth of ecotourism. However, the marketing of geological icons has usually followed traditional forms of marketing and promotion through the print and audio-visual media. In this presentation examples are given of marketing geological wonders through interpretive trails, interactive websites, and the social media. Dr Ross Dowling is Foundation Professor of Tourism, School of Marketing, Tourism & Leisure, Faculty of Business & Law, Edith Cowan University, Western Australia. His research ineterests lie in Ecotourism, Geotourism and Cruise Ship Tourism. He is an Advisor, UNESCO Global Network of National Geoparks and through his company Ideology Pty Ltd he is Convenor of the Global Geotourism Conferences. |
