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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 per cent 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 per cent 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 per cent of the global tourist market and that number is climbing fast." Dr Lomax-Smith says the South Australian Government is committed to supporting sustainable tourism development in this State, as well as marketing our credentials as a "green" holiday destination. "We believe South Australia offers visitors easily accessible, world-class ecotourism experiences and there is a great opportunity for us to be a leader in this area in the future. "One example is Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island, which is due to open in March, 2008. This development will demonstrate sustainable tourism accommodation at its best. "The Baillie Lodges development, located at Hanson Bay, will provide incredible luxury for its guests while demonstrating how tourism can benefit conservation. "Not only have the lodge's developers ensured their environmental impact has been minimal right from the start of the project, but they have announced the creation of a 10-year fund to support environmental projects on Kangaroo Island, in partnership with the State Government. "Ecotourism is all about the industry and government working together to achieve positive outcomes for the environment, while offering an amazing experience for visitors. "The Nature Foundation has worked in partnership with the Department for Environment and Heritage and SA Tourism Commission to direct funds from tourists visiting sea-lion colonies into sea-lion research projects at Seal Bay, Kangaroo Island and other colonies throughout South Australia. "Two 'money-spinners' for visitor donations have been painted with sea-lion images and placed at Seal Bay and the Sealink Seal Bay exhibit at Adelaide Zoo. "There also has been a brochure produced to help visitors understand the importance of research and how their donations are helping this threatened species." The 2008 National Ecotourism Conference will be hosted by Ecotourism Australia, the peak national body for the ecotourism industry. This not-for-profit organisation aims to grow and promote ecotourism and to assist tourism operators to become environmentally sustainable, economically viable and socially and culturally responsible. |
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