Wednesday 10 May 2006

Tourism operators in Port Douglas will get the latest information on responsible tourism at a free workshop conducted by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority today (Wednesday 10 May 2006).

The Get Onboard Industry Training Workshop aims to keep tourism managers and crew up-to-date with best environmental practice and operational requirements.

Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority Tourism and Recreation Group Director Lisha Mulqueeny said the workshop covered everything from Marine Parks Permits to best practice interpretation.

“These workshops are part of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s commitment to working with industry for the sustainable use and preservation of the Marine Park for generations to come,” she said.

“The overall aim is to help keep the tourism industry up-to-date with all they need to know about operating in the Marine Park.”

Peter Metcalfe, from Quicksilver in Port Douglas, said the workshop would help the industry brush up on responsible tourism.

“The workshop will assist us in keeping abreast with key operational requirements so we can offer a high standard reef experience for our customers and help protect the Marine Park,” he said.

Ms Mulqueeny said tourism was the largest commercial activity in the Great Barrier Reef region.

“Tourism contributes over $5.1 billion per annum to the local and Australian economy,” she said.

“In 2005 there were approximately 820 operators and 1500 vessels and aircraft permitted to operate in the Marine Park. Marine Park tourism attracts approximately 1.9 million visitors each year.”

The workshop, which is divided into an operator forum (2.00pm – 5.30pm) and crew forum (6.00 pm– 9.00pm), is taking place at the Port Douglas Community Hall in Mowbray St, Port Douglas.