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Members Newsletter 31 January 2025

Friday 31, Jan 2025
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Contents
Host a General Meeting
2025 Welcome to the Dry 
TTE Digital Coach Program
TEP Workshop Working with Buisness Events
Tourism Towards 2030
Fairwork Underpayment Update 
Aboriginal Cultural Tourism
Kakadu Knowledge for Tour Guides Training
Tour Guiding Fundamentals
Managing your online reviews 
Programs and Campaigns
Territory Tourism Discount Scheme 2
Update Bookeasy
 

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

Meetings & Events

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

Bookings now OPEN

Welcome to the Dry and Top End Travel Expo! Returning in 2025, this event offers fantastic opportunities for networking and showcasing your products.

Event Details:

  • Welcome to the Dry: Friday, 4 April 2025
  • Top End Travel Expo: Saturday, 5 April 2025
  • Location: Mindil Beach Casino Resort Pavilion

Bookings are now open—secure your spot quickly as spaces are limited!

Book Now - FILLING FAST
 
Tourism Top End's Digital Coach Program is here to grow your business.
Leverage digital marketing to reach more customers and drive more sales. 
No matter what your experience level is, our (free) program is here to support your success. 

Book your Digital Coach session now:
calendly.com/ttedigitalcoach/digital_coach_session

IN THIS WEEK'S DIGITAL MARKETING UPDATES:

DeepSeek: all the news about the startup that’s shaking up AI stocks
DeepSeek has garnered attention for building open-source AI models using less cash and fewer GPUs when compared to the billions spent by OpenAI, Meta, Google, Microsoft, and others. 

19 Helpful Practices And Technologies For One-Person Marketing Teams
When you're wearing so many hats, efficiency becomes your most valuable asset, so you must get creative to tackle your to-dos quickly and effectively.

Make 2025 the year you futureproof your travel brand
Read about the top digital marketing trends in the travel industry this year and how marketers can stay ahead of the curve.

For any queries about your Digital Marketing, contact sfernandes@tourismtopend.com.au or book a free Digital Coach session
 
Click to Schedule Your (Free) Digital Coach Session
 
TEP Workshop – Working with Business Events
Thursday 6th February 2025
10-11am
Join Tourism Top End and Gabrielle Deacon from Gift of the Gab for a 1-hour workshop designed to assist you working with Business Events. What you can expect to learn from Gabs and NT Business Events:
  • What is Business Events
  • Extended Touring
  • NTBE Supplier Page
  • Creative Tips
  • What happens next when you have an enquiry 
  • Networking/ Famils/ Site Inspections
Zoom Registration Here

Presented by TTE, Gift of the Gab and NT Business Events 

 
 
Tourism Towards 2030 Darwin - 27th February 2025
The Tourism Towards 2030 Conference presents an exciting opportunity for businesses in the tourism and hospitality sectors to come together, learn from industry leaders, and explore fresh insights, national perspectives, and practical advice. With the theme Better Together, this year’s conference emphasises the importance of collaboration and partnership in fostering a thriving tourism and hospitality industry in the Northern Territory.
Registrations
Registrations are now open and great value at $40 including lunch, refreshments, and networking drinks. Don't miss out on this invaluable opportunity to supercharge your business!
Register here.
For further information visit https://www.tourismnt.com.au/industry-toolkit/tourism-towards-2030-conference
 

A Guide to Correctly Paying Employees and Understanding the Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code

This guide provides essential steps for small business employers to ensure accurate employee payments and compliance with wage regulations. It also offers insights into the Voluntary Small Business Wage Compliance Code, helping employers understand its benefits and how to implement it for added protection in their business operations.

Get the Fairwork Guide Here
 

Partnering for Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Development

Tourism NT, in collaboration with Thrive Territory, Penangke Cultural Consultants, and The Aware Advisors, is delivering the Aboriginal Cultural Tourism Along Drive Routes initiative.

This project focuses on enhancing Aboriginal cultural tourism experiences along two key self-drive routes: the Red Centre Way and the Explorers Way.

Project Objectives

The initiative aims to:

  • Empower Aboriginal Territorians to develop sustainable tourism businesses
  • Enhance the diversity of Aboriginal tourism offerings
  • Create economic opportunities for communities while supporting individuals to stay on Country

By promoting authentic, Aboriginal-led tourism experiences, the project supports the Northern Territory Government’s goals of increasing overnight visitor spending, generating employment pathways, and driving regional economic development.


We Welcome Your Participation

Between January and March 2025, the project team will engage with Aboriginal people, communities, homelands, and outstations to explore tourism aspirations and gather ideas for developing cultural tourism experiences along the Red Centre Way and Explorers Way.

How to Get Involved

Aboriginal individuals and groups interested in developing cultural tourism initiatives can participate in various ways:

  1. Ready to Share Your Idea?

    • Register your idea and express interest in attending a workshop.
  2. Want to Learn More Before Sharing?

    • Register your interest in attending a workshop.

If attending a workshop isn't possible, participants can still register their interest and provide contact details, along with information about their home community, homeland, or outstation. This information will help the project team plan stops along the route during their twice-scheduled engagement drives.

For more information, to register ideas, or meet the project team, visit:
https://www.nt-aboriginal-tourism.com.au

Meet the Team
NTAT Explorer
NTAT Red Centre
 
Kakadu Knowledge for Tour Guides Training – Fast Track Accreditation Program 

If you're an operator hiring new staff to become tour guides in Kakadu in 2025, consider enrolling with Charles Darwin University’s accelerated Kakadu Knowledge for Tour Guides (KKFTG) course. This comprehensive training, designed to be completed in just one week, is an exceptional opportunity to acquire the knowledge to promote the cultural and natural values of the UNESCO World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park. Accreditation is mandatory for those leading commercial groups in the park.

Dates: 3–6 March 2025
Location: Charles Darwin University, Palmerston Campus

For more information, contact Chris Hogarth from CDU at chris.hogarth@cdu.edu.au
Limited spots are available.

Tourism NT has the Tour Guide Training Support program which can assist with costs: 
https://tourismnt.com.au/industry-toolkit/grants-funding/tour-guide-training-support
 
 
NT Government Tour Guide Training Support 2024/25

Tour Guide Training Funding
Take advantage of Tourism NT’s funding program and take your tour guides to the next level with the Tour Guiding Fundamentals three-day micro-credential course, to be held in Darwin from Monday, 10 February.
NT’s tourism industry is growing rapidly, and so is the demand for skilled tour guides.
This nationally endorsed course is run by Tour Guides Australia, the peak national body for tour guides, and is proudly supported by Tourism Top End and held in TTE's Board Room at 6 Bennett Street, Darwin.
Click here for more information or enquire direct to Tour Guides Australia via email or call on 0438 361 664.
TGA - Tour Guide Fundamentals Info Sheet
 

Webinar: Managing your online reputation

Your online reputation matters. Proactively managing your digital customer service and responding to reviews can set your business apart and attract more customers. Your online reviews also contribute to your Global Review Index (GRI) score, an important benchmark to understand your business’s online reputation. A high GRI score is also important if you plan on entering the Northern Territory Tourism Brolga Awards in 2025.
 
Join industry experts Jessica Small from Tripadvisor and Avril Carter from ReviewPro to understand more actionable strategies and insights to:
 
  • use review responses to advocate for your business and build trust
  • respond to negative reviews in a way that enhances your reputation
  • encourage more customer reviews and boost your guest review scores
  • navigate the customer review journey across different booking platforms
  • master best-practice guidelines for responding to reviews effectively.

Date: Wednesday 5 February 2025
Time: 09:00am – 10:00am
 
Join the meeting now
Meeting ID: 423 028 759 539
Passcode: aZ735UB7
 
Register now or email tourism.development@nt.gov.au for more information.
 

Programs and Campaigns

Territory Tourism Discount Scheme - Round 2 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!

 

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. 
 
Visitor Centre Advertising
Book VIC digital advertising for 2025:
  • Video Wall
  • Digital Brochure
  • Website Banner
SECURE YOUR SPOTS NOW  - FILLING FAST 
Bookings open now - secure your 2025 VIC advertising
 
Cruise Ships

Cruise Ship Schedule – February 2025 to April 2025

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)
March 2025
  • Sat 01 Mar 2025 06:10 - Coral Geographer 120 pax    
  • Sun 02 Mar 2025 05:00  - Azamara Pursuit  777 pax (Domestic)
  • Mon 03 Mar 2025 11:30 - Viking Venus 930 pax (Domestic)
  • Sat 08 Mar 2025 07:00  - Amadea 624 pax (Domestic)
  • Tue 11 Mar 2025 07:30 - Queen Anne  3000 pax (Domestic)
  • Thu 13 Mar 2025 05:30  - Norwegian Sun 1936 pax (Domestic)
  • Sun 23 Mar 2025 08:00 - Coral Adventurer 120 pax (Domestic)
April 2025
  • Tue 01 Apr 2025 10:30 - Viking Orion 930 pax (Domestic)
  • Wed 02 Apr 2025 05:25 - Celebrity Solstice 2850 pax  (International)
  • Sun 06 Apr 2025 05:00  - Crown Princess 3080 pax  (Domestic)
  • Sun 06 Apr 2025 06:25 - Seven Seas Mariner 700 pax (Domestic)
  • Mon 07 Apr 2025 08:00 - Coral Geographer 120 pax (International)
  • Mon 07 Apr 2025 09:00  - Nautica 684 pax (International)
  • Mon 07 Apr 2025 17:30 - Seven Seas Voyager 700 pax (Domestic Overnight)
  • Thu 10 Apr 2025 07:30 - Ovation of the Seas 4180 pax (Domestic)
  • Sat 12 Apr 2025 08:00 - Coral Discoverer 72 pax (Domestic)
  • Mon 14 Apr 2025 06:00 - Paul Gauguin 332 pax (International)
  • Tue 15 Apr 2025 08:00 - Coral Adventurer 120 pax (Domestic)
  • Wed 16 Apr 2025 09:00 - Norwegian Sun 1936 pax (International)
  • Fri 25 Apr 2025 05:30 - Crown Princess 3080 pax (Domestic)
  • Mon 28 Apr 2025 08:00 - Coral Geographer 120 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
 

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

 

Member Noticeboard 

NT Government Media Releases 
Celebrating the Outstanding Achievements of Territorians on the 2025 Australia Day Honours List
New round of event funding opens for Territory events
Roadshow: State of the Territory's economy
Statement: Grant Tambling AM
NT Defence Week 2025: Strengthening the North
 
Stop. Check. Protect. to keep you safe from scammers
Scams are getting harder to spot. Scammers increasingly take advantage of new technology, new products or services and major events to create believable but deceptive stories.
More Information Here
 
Cyclones
The Top End of the Northern Territory experiences cyclones between November and May, primarily affecting coastal areas within 50 km of the sea.

Cyclones are highly dangerous, bringing destructive winds, heavy rainfall, flooding, and storm surges. They can also disrupt essential services, travel, and communication.

To stay safe, familiarise yourself with the types of alerts and warnings and take steps to prepare in advance.

Prepare for a Cyclone Emergency
Cyclone Tracy 50 Years Map - Before & After
 
Tips &Tricks
Distribution channels and consumer purchasing behaviour varies from market to market, so you need to understand the structure of the distribution system specific to your target markets before attending a trade show.
How does the distribution system work?
City Of Darwin "Fun Bus" Feb - March 2025
City Of Darwin Public Pool Information
 
 
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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