Bloggers escape to Queensland for challenge of a lifetime

An ‘amazing race’ has kicked off in Brisbane with Queensland welcoming 17 bloggers from 9 countries for the Escapers 2015 challenge.

Tourism and Events Queensland (TEQ), in partnership with Scoot and Accor Hotels, will host a four-day tour of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast and the Gold Coast, tasking delegates with a number of tourism activities to win the Escapers 2015 series.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Kate Jones, said the bloggers have extraordinary profiles with more than one million followers collectively. They will inspire their audiences and promote Queensland via Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and blogs during the tour.

Escapers 2015 challenged the digital influencers to earn reward points while promoting their visit.

“Escapers 2015 involves participants from across Asia including Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Korea, Japan, China and Australia,” Ms Jones said.

“Their tour includes visits to the Gallery of Modern Art at Southbank, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, a Story Bridge climb, and Riverlife Adventure Centre activities in Brisbane.

“The delegation will travel to the Sunshine Coast, first visiting Australia Zoo, and then splitting into two groups to explore Noosa and Mooloolaba.

“Their itinerary will conclude on the Gold Coast, where the group will divide to complete challenges at theme parks, a Skypoint climb and a surfing experience at Surfers Paradise.”

Minister Jones said the winners of Escapers 2015 would be announced at an awards dinner at the Sofitel on the Gold Coast on Wednesday 4 March.

Australian TV personality, Liz Cantor, will emcee the event as she follows the delegation on their tour.

Scoot General Manager for Australia, Dennis Basham, said Scoot had been proud to be the airline sponsor of the event, carrying the team members first to Singapore where they commenced their challenges and then on to the Gold Coast.

“We are excited to help spread the word about how great Queensland is across our network, and to our loyal followers on Facebook (over a million fans) and other social media platforms,” said Mr Basham.

Gaynor Reid, Director of Communications for Accor Asia Pacific, said the Escapers event was a great way to showcase the attractions of Queensland while encouraging strong social media presence for the destination and for Accor’s hotels.

“Accor is delighted to take part in this social media campaign, bringing bloggers from across Asia Pacific to enjoy the best of Queensland and our beautiful hotels,” said Ms Reid.

“The competitive spirit and nature of the event means that all the bloggers involved are encouraged to share the experience with their followers, which will bring extensive buzz around the event online.”

To stay up-to-date with the Escapers 2015 from Monday 2 March, follow #Escapers15 on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Emma Smith (Minister Jones’ Office) 0417 405 879