First Indigenous Tourism Expo

By NSW Dept of Aboriginal Affairs

Aboriginal cultural tourism was the focus of an expo held recently in Sydney. The 2005 'Corroboree' Indigenous Tourism Expo, which was partly funded by the Department, brought together Indigenous tourism operators from across Australia to promote an Indigenous tourism experience.

Lois Peeler, Chairperson of Aboriginal Tourism Australia, said the expo held at the Opera House was the first public Indigenous Tourism and Cultural Expo.

"The expo introduced the public to the wide array of diverse and exciting travel opportunities with Indigenous tour operators."

"It showcased the best in Indigenous dance, music, art and stories, stimulating interest in domestic, as well as international visitors, to have an Indigenous tourism experience." Ms Peeler said.

As part of the proceedings, Indigenous Tourism Ambassador Cathy Freeman launched Secret Journeyswhich highlights cultural experiences that are available to the traveller. Some NSW Aboriginal tourism experiences are included in the publication which will be an insert for global distribution through the Lonely Planet Australia Guidebook as well as the Australia and NZ on a Shoestring Guidebook.

Aboriginal leader Dr Lowitja O'Donoghue also attended the expo to launch the Welcome to Country brochure developed by Aboriginal Tourism Australia. The brochure is aimed at providing information on Indigenous cultural protocols to visitors and the tourism industry.