The renowned ‘Meet Darwin’ familiarisation event, an annual collaboration between the Department of Tourism and Culture’s NT Convention Bureau (NTCB) and Darwin Convention Centre designed to showcase Darwin as a leading business events destination will be held from 17-20 May 2018.

Department of Tourism and Culture Acting Deputy CEO Andrew Hopper said twelve highly qualified business event planners from across Australia will have an opportunity to discover the world-class, award-winning Darwin Convention Centre, whilst also experiencing the very best of Darwin, Australia’s visionary capital.

“The four-day familiarisation event will highlight what Darwin has to offer in terms of staging business events while providing a valuable opportunity for local operators to network and make key contacts,” Mr Hopper said.

“The programme is designed to reveal the quirky, cultural and business aspects of Darwin, whilst showcasing a broad range of activities and infrastructure.”

The business event planners will meet with over 20 local attractions, hotels, specialist event suppliers, tours and sample local restaurants over the four days.

It is intended that ‘Meet Darwin’ will deliver new business event opportunities for the Top End that provide strong economic, social and intellectual benefits to the local community.

With its strategic access to Asia, unique Top End experiences, stunning waterfront and year-round tropical climate, Darwin is positioned as a desirable business events destination for Australian and Asian delegates.

The ‘Meet Darwin’ familiarisation program now in its tenth year of operation is the most successful sales activity undertaken for business events in the Top End each year, resulting in bidding opportunities and conference wins.

During a half-day business session attendees will hear from key government and industry leaders to learn more about doing business in the NT and an overview of the economic, cultural and social drivers of Darwin. Speakers include Mr Michael Tennant, Acting CEO of Department of Tourism and Culture and CEO of Department of Trade, Business & Innovation, Mr Andrew Hopper, Acting Deputy CEO of Department of Tourism and Culture and Ms Janine Fidock, Marketing Manager of Tourism Top End.

The program includes tours of the National Critical Care & Trauma Recovery Centre and Helping People Achieve in addition to tours of local tourism attractions including Crocosaurus Cove, Mindil Beach Sunset Markets, the Royal Flying Doctor Service Darwin Tourist Facility, a jumping croc cruise with Adelaide River Cruises and a cultural experience with Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours.   

The Northern Territory Government’s record $103 million Turbocharging Tourism stimulus package aims to attract more holiday visitors, create local jobs and put more money into the pockets of Territorians. Visit www.turbochargingtourism.nt.gov.au

To learn more about hosting a business event in the NT and the NT Convention Bureau visit http://www.ntconventions.com.au/