The theme – not unsurprisingly – was sport and more specifically the great events and associated attractions that visiting Aussies can attend and enjoy in both destinations.
In only her second day in the role, Kristen Angus, Country Manager VisitBritain, Australia & New Zealand, said that over the next year there would be a “jam-packed” calendar of British sporting events to enjoy both in the UK and Australia.
While Wimbledon is currently underway, Wrexham Football Club will be visiting Australia in mid-July on a pre-season tour, the Women’s Rugby World Cup takes place in August and September and the ‘Barmy Army’ will be Down Under later in the year for the Ashes.
“These events provide a really valuable opportunity to encourage visitors to not just watch from the side lines but to get stuck in, travelling across our regions and driving tourism across England, Scotland and Wales year round,” said Ms Angus.
“Iconic traditions and major sporting events act as powerful moments for attracting global attention, providing a platform for nations to share messages of welcome diversity and inclusivity, as well as offering visitors the chance to be at the heart of the action.”
(Left to right):Louise Cantillon, British Consul General and Deputy Trade Commissioner Asia Pacific (Australia & New Zealand); Rosie Keane, Consul General of Ireland, Sydney; Kristen Angus, Country Manager VisitBritain, Australia & New Zealand; Sofia Hansson, Manager, Australia & New Zealand, Tourism Ireland
Sofia Hansson, Manager, Australia & New Zealand, Tourism Ireland, reiterated the importance of the Australian market, which ranks number seven in revenue generated from source markets around the world.
“Many Australians have Irish heritage and so creating that deep emotional connection can really enhance their experience when they come to Ireland,” she said.
“And I think for Ireland, the Australian market is not just about tourism and revenue. It’s really a bridge of culture and history and friendship.”
Perfect partners: Team VisitBritain and Team Tourism Ireland
Ms Hanson highlighted the wide array of sports and activities that visitors could enjoy across the island of Ireland, mentioning also that Masters champion Rory McIlroy will be heading to Melbourne to play in the Australian Open.
“Sport doesn’t just unite communities, it shapes cultures and drives experience and experiences too.
“No doubt Australians will be inspired by the Lions tour again this year and we look forward to hopefully turning some of the fans into travellers, where they can experience our amazing destinations themselves.”
The guests watched the British and Irish Lions defeat the Queensland Reds 52-12 and also enjoyed a game of ‘Destination Bingo’ where prizes included a hamper full of British and Irish goodies.
