Western Australia looking at promoting itself as Wine destination in India

Tourism Western Australia to participate in post famils organised by Tourism Australia for India Travel Mission in Gold Coast 
 
After promoting itself as one of the best education destinations in Australia through Perth city, Tourism Western Australia is now working towards attracting high-end Indian leisure travellers for Wine Tourism in Australia's biggest state. The region is currently watching and understanding dynamics of the Indian market and will start working on various promotional and marketing activities in the country by next year. To initiate the marketing process, the region (Western Australia) is participating in the post famils organised by Tourism Australia for India Travel Mission (ITM) in Gold Coast this year (August 10-12, 2009).

Talking about the potential of the Indian market, Michelle Kosonen, Manager – Destination PR, Tourism Western Australia said, “Asian markets are showing some phenomenal growth rates in the last few years for Western Australia region, especially countries like Singapore, Malaysia, China and India. Currently, we receive very less Indian leisure travellers, but the year-on-year growth rate from India is very impressive. We are looking at focusing on specific segments like high-end travellers interested in Wine Tourism, Pearl and Diamond Tourism, Beach Tourism, Cultural Tourism etc.”

Tourism Western Australia is promoting wine destinations like Margaret River region (Watershed Winery; Vasse Felix Winery; Voyager Estate winery) along with the southwest region of Western Australia. Kosonen informed that the famous wine route of the Southwest region of Western Australia (Perth – Albany – Pemberton – Perth) is one of the biggest attractions for wine lovers from across the world. Apart from Wine Tourism, the regional authorities are also looking at promoting water sports (snorkeling, fishing, diving, surfing, kite surfing, scuba diving, wind surfing etc); outback adventure; wildlife parks, night life along with fairs and festivals. According to the region's tourism authorities, on an average, 26 per cent of the total wine in Australia is produced in Western Australia region. “Since we have some of the best wineries in the country, wine love.rs would be attracted to experience the wine and dine culture of Australia,” concluded Kosonen.