New vision for tourism in the Scenic Rim
Who: Students from the University of Queensland School of Tourism, Scenic Rim tourism operators.
What: The UQ School of Tourism is working with the Scenic Rim Regional Council and local operators to package and develop visitor itineraries in the region as part of the School’s Tourism Regional Internship Project (TRIP).
Students from the school will spend 10 days in the Scenic Rim working with the area’s local tourism operators.
School of Tourism head Professor Roy Ballantyne said it was important to give students access to practical situations through a program that also delivered real benefits for the regions involved.
``The School prides itself on its proactive involvement with industry and we deliver a range of innovative work-integrated learning opportunities for our students,’’ Prof. Ballantyne said.
``It is crucial to provide opportunities for the exchange of knowledge between industry and the university.’’
Scenic Rim Regional Council Mayor John Brent said the program was the start of a whole new era of tourism in the region.
"We are delighted to be working together with UQ and Scenic Rim tourism operators to bring about healthy outcomes for our local economy and for the students,'' Cr Brent said.
Scenic Rim Regional Council Tourism Development Officer Cathie Johnston said UQ School of Tourism students would play an important role in the council’s journey of setting a new vision, direction and culture for the region.
``Our three very active local tourism organisations worked together with the council and UQ to integrate the project effectively with the overall Scenic Rim Tourism Strategy going forward,’’ Ms Johnston said.
``Our communities and our tourism industry operators are very excited about School of Tourism students joining us in our stunning backyard.’’
Launching the program earlier this month, Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor said the TRIP scheme was a great example of a partnership working towards the objectives of the State Government's Queensland Tourism Strategy.
``It also demonstrates how collaborative efforts between the higher education sector, tourism operators and regional tourism authorities can in turn benefit the community,’’ Mr Lawlor said.
When: Friday, September 25 – Saturday, October 4
Where: Various locations in the Scenic Rim, including O’Reilly’s, Mount Barney Lodge and Lillydale.
Photo opportunities: UQ students with local operators.
For more information or to arrange images or interviews please contact Jodie Powell, Media Officer, UQ School of Tourism on 0409 946 796.