Digital experts empower tourism operators

More than 150 Queensland tourism operators will learn the latest online marketing trends and digital technology tips from global IT leaders at QTalks: A Digital Big Bang! held in Brisbane today.

Minister for Tourism, Jann Stuckey said the QTalks conference would help Queensland tourism operators navigate the evolving digital world.

“This government has a strong plan for the Queensland tourism industry, but we are also conscious about helping tourism operators upgrade their marketing skills,” Ms Stuckey said.

“QTalks is a great opportunity for specialists like Australia’s first professional Instagrammer Lauren Bath and Twitter Executive Oliver Wilton to share their knowledge and experience.

“Small business is the backbone of our tourism industry, with nine out of ten tourism operators being small business owners.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for small business owners to gain insight into how digital platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Yelp can be used to optimise commercial exposure and boost marketing strategies.

“The conference will be recorded and made available online for tourism operators unable to attend the event.

“Our 20-year plan for tourism, Destination Success, recognises the need to develop the world’s best digital tourism systems and integrate technological innovations across all tourism businesses.”

Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Leanne Coddington said QTalks: A Digital Big Bang! was created from Tourism and Events Queensland’s Digital Ready Program.

“The Digital Ready Program was implemented to assist small to medium tourism businesses with all aspects of digital marketing,” Ms Coddington said.

“Through workshops, one-on-one mentoring, webinars and phone coaching, Tourism and Events Queensland has assisted more than 8,300 tourism operators in capturing online business.

“The uptake for the free weekly webinars hosted by Tourism and Events Queensland’s Digital Coaches has exceeded expectations with more than 640 participants tuning in to the live streams since October 2011.

“The webinars are recorded and uploaded to Tourism and Events Queensland’s Youtube channel for anyone to view as an additional benefit of the program.”

Conference attendee and Glass House Eco Lodge Owner Keith Murray said through learning new skills in the Digital Ready Program, he had implemented changes to his website, and started a Facebook page and Instagram account, which has resulted in a significant increase to direct website bookings.

“It really has provided me with a solid understanding of digital marketing and how it can improve the exposure of my business,” Mr Murray said.

[ENDS] 2 June 2014
Media Contact: Minister’s Office – 3719 7252