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Members Newsletter 13 December 2024

Friday 13, Dec 2024
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Contents
A Message from your TTE General Manager 
Meetings and Events
Janurary General Meeting
Host a General Meeting
Membership Renewal
TTE Digital Coach Program
ATIC September Survey
Australian Tourism Awards 
Programs and Campaigns
Territory Tourism Discount Scheme 2
Update Bookeasy
Tips and Tricks 
 

Top End Visitor Information Centre
Top End VIC Updates
VIC Advertising
Upcoming Cruise Ships
Member Noticeboard
NT Gov Media Releases
Grants and Funding
View available grants here
Surf Lifesaving NT
 

A message from Samantha Bennett - TTE General Manager 

As we close off another year, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on everything we’ve achieved together in 2024 and express my heartfelt gratitude for your dedication and support for our tourism industry.

This year brought exciting developments, including the launch of the Million Dollar Road Trip and the Territory Tourism Discount Scheme, with the next round starting on 9 December. We experienced a bigger cruise ship season, successful marketing campaigns, more products than ever before, and increased participation in Caravan and Camping Shows – with five already planned for 2025!

Collaboration was key to our success. We spent more time engaging with members across the regions, fostering increased attendance and stronger partnerships.

A highlight of the year was the Brolga Awards, where our team proudly won the award for Best Visitor Information Services. This achievement recognises the countless hours of hard work and dedication from our incredible TTE team. I cannot thank them enough – their commitment, innovative ideas, and genuine care for our members and visitors are the foundation of our success.

A special thank you to the Board for your invaluable time and efforts, not only for our team and members but for the entire tourism industry.

To our members, thank you for your unwavering support and dedication. 2024 has been a remarkable year, and I hope you can finish it on a high note and prepare for an even bigger and better 2025.

Wishing you all a joyous holiday season! From all of us at TTE, Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

 

Meetings & Events

TTE JANUARY GENERAL MEETING 
Date:           Tuesday 28th January 2025
Time:          5.15pm for 6pm
Venue:        Mindil Beach Casino Resort
                    Gilruth Avenue  
 
RSVP Here
Zoom Link
 
Host a General Meeting 
Tourism Top End invites its members to host a monthly meeting in 2025.

This is a valuable opportunity to connect with fellow members, engage with the wider tourism community, and highlight your business. As a host, you can showcase your venue or present updates about your products during the General Business segment. You’re also encouraged to share brochures or marketing materials with attendees, maximizing your visibility and creating meaningful connections.

Express your interest here
 

News and Opportunities

TTE Membership Renewals 2025

2025 Membership Renewal Reminder

You should have received your 2025 Membership Renewal email, which includes options to pay via Credit Card or EFT on the invoice.

Membership Renewal Incentive Promotion

Renew and pay your 2025 membership by 5 PM on Monday, 27th January 2025, to be entered into our exclusive incentive draw. Winners will be announced during the January TTE General Meeting— don’t miss your chance to win!

A big thank you to our Media members for generously providing the prizes for this promotion.

For any questions about your membership, feel free to contact us at membership@tourismtopend.com.au.

 
This week in Digital Marketing:

Tourism Top End's Digital Coach Program is here to grow your business.

Take your business to the next level by harnessing the power of digital marketing.

Our free Digital Coach Program is here to help you attract more customers, increase sales, and achieve your marketing goals—no matter your experience level.

Book your session today:
calendly.com/ttedigitalcoach/digital_coach_session


This Week's Digital Marketing Insights

1. The Ripple Effect of AI in Search: How is AI changing consumer behaviour?
AI is reshaping consumer behaviour and transforming the way we interact with online content. Learn how these changes might impact your business strategies.

2. A Very Demure 2024: The Trends That Had TikTok Buzzing This Year
Discover the trends that dominated TikTok in 2024 and kept users engaged on the world’s leading social media platform.

3.Why Australia's social media ban impacts global marketers
With the upcoming ban on social media for under-16s in Australia, marketers face a shift in strategies. Learn how this change will influence the digital landscape and reshape how businesses engage with younger audiences.

For any queries about your Digital Marketing, contact sfernandes@tourismtopend.com.au
 
Click to Schedule Your (Free) Digital Coach Session
 
Economic Strains Persist but Australian Tourism Businesses Anticipate International Boost
The September 2024 quarterly business sentiment survey from the Australian Tourism Industry Council, in partnership with Tourism Top End, details another tough quarter for Australian tourism businesses amid ongoing challenging economic conditions.
The national survey found that 69% of businesses were trading as usual however, approximately 41% of businesses saw weaker activity compared to same quarter in 2023, with only 33% of businesses seeing stronger activity.
Weaker activity was influenced by decreased visitors to the area, lack of consumer confidence, weaker economic conditions and rising business costs. Businesses seeing stronger demand attributed this to school holidays, growing their digital presence and increasing their investment into advertising and promotion. The Quality Tourism programs are an ideal way that businesses can continue developing and improving their online presence as well as enhancing their tourism business overall. For more information contact Annie An by phone: 08 8980 6006, 0474577956 or  email: industrydevelopment@tourismtopend.com.au
Click here to read more on the September 2024 Business Sentiment Survey.
 
The 2024 Australian Tourism Awards will be held in March in Adelaide, recognising top performers across 26 tourism categories nationwide. The Northern Territory (NT) has several strong contenders nominated for these prestigious awards, following their successes at the 2024 Brolga Awards, which are NT's official tourism recognition program.

Prominent NT operators up for major awards include:

  • Katherine Outback Experience, recognised for its immersive cultural shows and accessibility initiatives.
  • Darwin Convention Centre, a premier venue for business events.
  • Darwin Festival, celebrated for its vibrant cultural events​

For a complete list of all NT winners and finalists, including those from other regions, you can visit the official Australian Tourism Awards page.

See the 2024 winners here
 

Programs and Campaigns

Territory Tourism Discount Scheme - Round 2 REVISED travel period

Package Expression of Interest – Round 2 Discount Scheme

Don’t miss this opportunity to boost your exposure! By participating in the Round 2 Discount Scheme, you can showcase irresistible packages and value-added deals that captivate consumers. Let’s make the Top End stand out with a wide range of incredible offers!

Important Reminder

Please ensure all existing offers are updated with the latest toolkit information to maximize their appeal.

Key Dates

  • Discounted Sales Period: 1st October 2024 – 31st March 2025
  • Eligible Travel Period: 9th December 2024 – 31st March 2025*

* Travel must commence no later than 31st March 2025.
* Funding is available until 31st March 2025 or until fully allocated.

Get involved today and make your mark in the Top End!

Updated Campaign Toolkit Here
Guidelines for Round 2 of the Discount Scheme
Package/Value Add - EOI
 

Maximize Your Business Presence on the TTE Consumer Website

Your page on the Tourism Top End consumer website (www.tourismtopend.com.au) is a valuable advertising tool and one of the many benefits of being a member. Make sure it’s working hard for your business by keeping it updated!

Checklist for Your Page:

  1. Update Your Images

    • Fresh, high-quality visuals can make a big impact.
  2. Revise Your Business Description

    • Highlight your unique selling points to stand out.
  3. Ensure Products Are Accurate and Bookable

    • Confirm your accommodation and tour products are visible and available.
    • Whether you self-manage, use a channel manager, or partner with a tour operator, ensure everything is linked and up to date.
  4. Verify Bank Details

    • Accurate bank details are essential for receiving payments from TTE.
  5. Review Your Cancellation Policy

    • Ensure your policy is clear and up to date for customer confidence.
  6. Participate in the Territory Tourism Discount Scheme

    • Make sure your products are bookable and eligible for this popular program!

Keep your page polished to attract more bookings and showcase the best of what your business offers!

 

Tips and Tricks 

Trade Show Tips
Who's who in the tourism industry
 

Top End Visitor Information Centre

Operator phone
Reminder the operator's phone number is:
0482 470 835. 
Please use it for direct contact during centre operating hours. This number is for the exclusive use of our members and not for public use or distribution. 
 
We need more brochures!

With the increasing number of visitors to the Visitor Centre, our brochure supply is running low. We kindly request that you restock your brochures by delivering them to our friendly team at 6 Bennett Street.

Your brochures help ensure visitors have access to valuable information while keeping your business prominently represented. Thank you for your support!

 
Visitor Centre Advertising
Book VIC digital advertising for 2025:
  • Video Wall
  • Digital Brochure
  • Website Banner
BOOK NOW!
 
Cruise Ships

Cruise Ship Schedule – December 2024 to February 2025

December 2024

  • Tue 31 Dec 2024 09:00 – Regatta 684 pax (Domestic)

January 2025

  • Sat 18 Jan 2025 07:25 – Seven Seas Voyager 700 pax (International)
  • Tue 21 Jan 2025 06:30 – Europa 2 516 pax (Domestic)
  • Wed 22 Jan 2025 06:30 – Noordam 2366 pax (Domestic)
  • Thu 23 Jan 2025 08:00 – Coral Geographer 120 pax (International)
  • Sun 26 Jan 2025 08:30 – Seven Seas Explorer 750 pax (Domestic)
  • Thu 30 Jan 2025 06:30 – Viking Venus 930 pax (Domestic)

February 2025

  • Mon 17 Feb 2025 06:30 – Viking Sky 930 pax (Domestic)
  • Tue 18 Feb 2025 06:30 – Queen Elizabeth 2068 pax (Domestic)
  • Sat 22 Feb 2025 06:30 – Zuiderdam 1964 pax (Domestic)
  • Mon 24 Feb 2025 09:00 – Seabourn Quest 458 pax (Domestic)
  • Wed 26 Feb 2025 08:00 – Silver Muse 596 pax (Domestic)
  • Fri 28 Feb 2025 05:30 – Arcadia 2388 pax (Domestic)

Please Note: Pax numbers indicate maximum capacity; actual onboard numbers may vary. This list is provided by Darwin Port.

View the entire cruise schedule HERE
 

Viking Venus Makes Its Maiden Visit to Darwin
Thursday, our staff and volunteers were delighted to step aboard the Viking Venus, an award-winning ship from the renowned Viking fleet.

Launched in 2021, this remarkable vessel boasts a sleek Scandinavian design prioritising comfort and can host up to 930 guests.

 

Do you need to contact our VIC staff?
Please call the VIC directly 0482 470 835 

 

Member Noticeboard 

NT Government Media Releases 
Shape the future: Have your say on the Territory Coordinator Bill
December-January school holiday program revealed
Events to commemorate 50th anniversary of Cyclone Tracy
More free TAFE places for NT construction students
 
Grants and Funding
 

The Aboriginal Tourism Development in NT Parks and Reserves Grant Program (Grant Program) will help NT owned and majority owned Aboriginal businesses and organisations to develop tourism product in 33 NT Joint Managed Parks; and to enable Aboriginal cultural experiences and tourism product for park visitors.
Tourism NT is providing a non-competitive funding pool of $1,400,000 (excluding GST).
Applications can be submitted for –

  • a minimum funding value of $30,000 (excluding GST)
  • up to a maximum funding value of $100,000 (excluding GST)

For further information please contact Tourism NT’s Aboriginal Tourism team at Aboriginal.tourismnt@nt.gov.au or telephone 08 8999 7420.
Applications can be made at grantsnt.nt.gov.au
Grant guidelines can be viewed here.

Click For More Information
Reduce Day to Day Costs
Major Grant Rounds
Biz Secure Program 


Click HERE for more grant and funding information
 
Surf Lifesaving NT 
Please see the below link for safe swimming information in the waters surrounding the Top End. 
Safe Swimming Information Here
 
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Copyright © 2023 Tourism Top End, all rights reserved.

Our mailing address is:
GPO Box 4392, Darwin NT

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