Edition 164 · January 2022

In this extraordinarily confronting and damaging time in the tourism industry we will continue to publish Tourforce monthly. However, we will not seek to offer advice or updates on COVID-19, as industry bodies and government bodies are best equipped to do this – with destination specific information.

We welcome short stories on innovations, and success stories and stories that reflect the positive things that the tourism industry is doing to ensure that the industry returns and re-builds. Submit stories to editor@tourforce.com

We want to place on record our thanks to those in business, government, research and the not-for-profit sectors who are working to get us through this challenging time.

Sydney-based Bondi Brewing’s flagship beer Extra Pale Ale is now available on all United Airlines flights from Australia to Los Angeles and San Francisco. United is the first U.S. airline to offer the boutique brand onboard its flights and it will be available for customers from March 2022. The beer is brewed with a special yeast sourced from United’s hometown Chicago.

Further information: https://www.bondi.beer/

SITA has made its Digital Travel Declaration solution available to governments free of charge globally. This will allow passengers to share travel and health documentation ahead of travel. It will also be used to streamline the introduction of other travel requirements such as future pandemics, local health concerns or more traditional security and immigration travel authorisations.

Further information: https://www.sita.aero/pressroom/news-releases/sita-launches-free-digital-travel-declaration-solution-supporting–governments-in-safely-opening-their-borders/

Virgin Atlantic has joined travel services specialist Collinson and the Pacific Asia Travel Association as part of the Global Travel Sector Vaccine Coalition. Together, they will use their collective reach to support the Go Give One fundraising campaign created by World Health Organisation Foundation to help lower-income countries in accessing these vaccines through donations. The campaign buys COVID-19 vaccines for middle and lower-income countries to help close the global vaccine equity gap.

Further information: https://gogiveone.org/travelcoalition/

The $250,000 Heritage Tourism Grants program is intended to accelerate the development of heritage tourism experiences and stimulate investment into heritage places. These grants will be provided on a matched funding basis to support projects that enable the activation of State Heritage-listed places, local heritage-listed places or state heritage areas for tourism purposes. The program is a key initiative of the South Australian Government’s Growing Our Heritage Future Strategy and Action Plan.

Further information: https://www.parks.sa.gov.au/park-management/improving-sa-national-parks/nbt-co-investment-fund/small-grants

The International Air Transport Association has launched the Aviation Carbon Exchange to help airlines meet their climate commitments. The new tool is the first centralised, real-time marketplace for the settlement of funds on trades in carbon offsets. The exchange provides airlines and other aviation stakeholders such as airports and aircraft manufacturers the opportunity to offset their carbon footprint by purchasing credits in certified projects that reduce carbon emissions including forestry, clean wind energy, protection of ecosystems and remote communities.

Further information: https://airlines.iata.org/news/iata-launches-carbon-exchange

The WorldTracer tool which tracks lost and found airline baggage has celebrated its 30th anniversary. In 1991, SITA partnered with the International Air Transport Association to develop a single, flexible, and fully integrated modular baggage management system. As part of SITA’s wider Baggage Management Portfolio WorldTracer helps to boost operational efficiency, reduce bag mishandling, and lower costs. To date it has assisted 200 million passengers trace their mishandled bags.

Further information: https://www.sita.aero/solutions/sita-at-airports/sita-baggage-management/worldtracer/

The first Dorsett hotel in Australia has opened within The Star entertainment and leisure precinct on the Gold Coast. The upscale hotel has 313 rooms featuring design elements and artwork inspired by locals including the 750 kilogram sculpted marble check-in desks in the lobby. The $400 million development was funded by The Star Entertainment Group and its consortium partners from Hong Kong, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium. Other Dorsett Hotels are also under construction in Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth.

Further information: https://www.dorsetthotels.com/en/dorsett-gold-coast/index.html

Hilton has launched the ‘Travel the World’ marketing campaign designed to inspire consumers to explore local alternatives to their favourite international destinations. The campaign is targeting consumers in Japan, Australia, Malaysia and Thailand to discover domestic experiences which satisfy their travel ambitions. It encompasses digital content including videos, social media and display advertising. Hilton is a global hospitality company with a portfolio of 18 brands comprising more than 6,700 properties in 122 countries.

Further information: https://newsroom.hilton.com/corporate/news/hilton-launches-travel-the-world-campaign

Video: https://vimeo.com/648468594

The Luxury Collection by Marriott International has launched its first precinct in Australia with the unveiling of The Tasman Hotel in Hobart. Located near Salamanca Place the hotel recreates the heritage aspects of the former state government offices with a mix of Art Deco and Georgian style sandstone architecture. It features 152 guest suites with a bespoke restaurant, cocktail bar and spirits library.

Further information: https://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/hbalc-the-tasman-a-luxury-collection-hotel-hobart/

A global textile manufacturing company focused on healthcare and hospitality markets is launching a reusable, washable laundry bag designed to eliminate two sources of plastic waste for hotels. The hybrid bag called VersaValet provides hoteliers a sustainable and simple solution to support their green initiatives and the environment. Made from 100% recycled yarns the bag is sustainably manufactured and features an antimicrobial finish for added protection.

Further information: https://www.standardtextile.com/news/standard-textile-announces-debut-of-versavalet/

Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s Create Great program is assisting 78 members develop new content and/or enhance existing content to align with the regional brand.

The program also aims to increase the opportunity for Tropical North Queensland content to be featured on the digital channels of Tourism and Events Queensland and Tourism Australia. The project received grant funding from the Australian Government under the Recovery for Regional Tourism program.

Further information: https://tourism.tropicalnorthqueensland.org.au/articles/create-great-to-elevate-tropical-north-queensland-brand/

The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative has released its first annual report which outlines the progress made in tackling plastics pollution in tourism over the past year. The Global Tourism Plastics Initiative which unites the tourism sector behind a common vision is led by the United Nations Environment Program and the World Tourism Organisation in collaboration with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

Further information: https://www.oneplanetnetwork.org/programmes/sustainable-tourism/global-tourism-plastics-initiative/progress-report-2021

Austrade, in partnership with state and territory tourism organisations, has launched an accessible tourism pilot program to identify practical ways for tourism operators to improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of their product or service. Push Adventures has been appointed to deliver the Accessible Tourism Service Provision Mentoring Pilot Program with 110 tourism operators around Australia. The results of the pilot will be used to develop an approach that can be widely adopted, as well as identify champions of accessible tourism.

Further information: http://pushadventures.com.au/accessible-tourism-mentoring/

Construction has begun on Australia’s first Centre for First Nations Cultures which will honour over 60,000 years of First Nations cultures across the country. Tarrkarri (pronounced tar-ka-ri means ‘the future’ in Kaurna) and will provide a platform for the world to learn about Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People. The Australian Government will provide up to $85 million and the South Australian Government will provide $115 million in additional funding towards the construction of the centre.

Further information: https://lotfourteen.com.au/projects/aboriginal-art-and-cultures-centre

Tripadvisor has launched a new dedicated information centre within its platform designed to provide more details on the company’s efforts to prioritise Trust and Safety for the benefit of travellers and businesses. The Trust and Safety Information Centre provides greater transparency around the platform’s expanded content and community guidelines giving more detail about the company’s review posting guidelines.

Further information: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Trust

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation in collaboration with Basque Culinary Centre is launching the 3rd Global Competition for Gastronomy Tourism Startups. The competition aims to identify projects and innovations that can transform the Gastronomy Tourism sector including the promotion of sustainable development at the regional and local levels. The deadline for submissions is 28 February 2022.

Further information: https://www.unwto.org/3rd-global-gastronomy-tourism-startup-competition

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-d5gLe8kSzI&feature=emb_title

A world-first wave-generating surf pool prototype near the Queensland town of Yeppoon could be open to the public by late 2022 if a $187 million development plan is approved. Broadbeach-based company Surf Lakes has built the facility which generates eight surfable waves every six seconds using a plunger. An application has also been lodged with Livingstone Council to develop a year-round tourist attraction to be completed in 2031.

Further information: https://www.surf-lakes.com/

Down Under Submarines has launched Australia’s first fully submersible hybrid vessel operating out of Mooloolaba on the Sunshine Coast. The SUBCAT-30 can dive to depths of up to 30 metres and travel on top of the water’s surface like a catamaran. The interior is similar to a planes cabin with 14 circular windows offering visibility of up to 30 metres underwater and video monitors providing real-time footage of the ocean from four cameras located on the sub’s exterior. It is also powered by six battery operated electric thrusters that produce zero emissions while submerged.

Further information: https://www.downundersubmarines.com/

More than 30,000 hectares of Crown land and state forests on the western side of the Blue Mountains in New South Wales is set to become a new state conservation area. The area north of Lithgow which is known for its sandstone cliffs and canyons, as well as several Aboriginal artefacts and cultural sites. The State Government will also invest $50 million to create Australia’s longest zipline, rock climbing route and an elevated canyon walk. There are also plans for a six-day long-distance walk from Wollemi to the Gardens of Stone, as well as mountain biking trails, rock climbing facilities and a 4WD circuit.

Further information: https://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/topics/parks-reserves-and-protected-areas/park-management/community-engagement/walking-tracks-and-trails-in-national-parks/gardens-of-stone-reserves

Adelaide has been named the world’s second National Park City after London and the first in Australia. The successful bid made by Green Adelaide will help develop Adelaide’s sustainable tourism offerings, promote the natural environment and champion it’s rich cultural heritage.

Further information: https://tourism.sa.gov.au/news-articles/adelaide-wins-national-park-city-status

The Expedia Group is prohibiting the sale of experiences that feature interactions with or performances whales and dolphins (and other cetaceans) and circus-style performances. Expedia will still offer wild whale and dolphin observational experiences that are run in accordance with the Expedia Group animal and guest welfare principles. Those experiences will not feature direct intentional contact with the animals and operators will ensure that that the activities don’t interfere with the animal’s natural way of being or cause it distress.

Further information: https://www.expedia.com/lp/b/wildlife

The United Nations World Tourism Organisation and the G20 Tourism Working Group have released recommendations for the transition to a green travel and tourism economy. The recommendations are a key resource for advancing progress in the policy area of ‘Green Transformation’ of the world’s leading economies. It also provides action and initiatives for tourism businesses and destinations to lead the way in achieving greater sustainability and help tourism recover from the COVID-19 crisis.

Further information: https://webunwto.s3.eu-west-1.amazonaws.com/s3fs-public/2021-05/210504-Recommendations-for-the-Transition-to-a-Green-Travel-and-Tourism-Economy.pdf

The Adventure Travel Trade Association, Tomorrows Air and Global Ecotourism Network have created a guide that offers a summary of key climate action concepts with links to examples from leading companies such as Intrepid and The Travel Corporation. It is aimed at small and medium sized travel business looking for basic guidance on where to start their climate journey.

Further information: https://www.adventuretravel.biz/research/climate-action-a-plain-talk-guide-for-small-travel-businesses

Tourism businesses are encouraged to provide their feedback on the Western Australian Government’s new policy to guide the management of short-term accommodation rentals. The draft position statement as well as a second public survey related to short-term rental accommodation are open for public comment until 7 March 2022.

Further information: https://consultation.dplh.wa.gov.au/

The European Travel Commission a non-profit organisation which represents 33 national tourism organisations has published a Handbook on Encouraging Sustainable Tourism Practices. The new guide explains how national and local tourism organisations can encourage tourism stakeholders at every level to build sustainable tourism. Case studies highlight the ways in which European and other worldwide destinations are embedding sustainable approaches and practices into their everyday operations.

Further information: https://etc-corporate.org/news/everyone-has-a-role-to-play-in-sustainable-tourism-etc-publishes-handbook-on-encouraging-sustainable-tourism-practices/

The Queensland Government has announced $130,000 in funding for the Tourism Master Plan for Magnetic Island 2030. Townsville City Council has been working in partnership with Tourism Magnetic Island to identify new and existing opportunities for tourism infrastructure, investment and sustainable development. With over two-thirds of Magnetic Island declared as National Park there is also an opportunity to highlight the island’s natural beauty in an environmentally and socially sensitive way.

Further information: https://statements.qld.gov.au/statements/94058

Flight Centre Travel Academy, in collaboration with Tourism Whitsundays, is offering the opportunity to Work, Study + Play in The Whitsundays. The program combines entry level tourism jobs on the Great Barrier Reef with a Diploma of Travel and Tourism from Torrens University. Since the program launched in November 2021 it has received over 1,700 enquiries with 80 students enrolled in the program. It received funding from the Australian Government under the Recovery for Regional Tourism program.

Further information: https://www.fctravelacademy.com/work-study-play-whitsundays

The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority has launched a package of educational resources to assist teachers, marine tourism operators and reef guides to facilitate high quality experiential learning excursions for students visiting the Great Barrier Reef. The ‘Be a Marine Biologist for a Day’ allows operators to develop educational products and experiences to stimulate Edutourism. The initiative brings together several existing programs including Reef Guardian Schools, High Standard Tourism Operators, Master Reef Guides and Eye on the Reef.

Further information: https://www.gbrmpa.gov.au/the-reef/learn-about-the-reef/be-a-marine-biologist-for-a-day

The Queensland Tourism Industry Council is seeking input regarding the impact the coronavirus pandemic has had on First Nations staff working in the tourism and hospitality industry. They are looking to determine the number of people in the workforce at present, staffing challenges and any pre-existing training or upskilling programs that could ensure better support to retain staff. The survey closes 31 January 2022.

Further information: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/NHWBQ9J

New research released by Tripadvisor, in partnership with Ipsos MORI, reveals how consumers attitudes and behaviours in relation to travel have changed compared to pre-pandemic. The report ‘Travel in 2022 – A Look Ahead’ which combines sentiment analysis and first-party data shows COVID-19 case counts, safety protocols, quarantine restrictions and cleanliness are all key factors in travel decision making in 2022. Surveys were conducted in five major international markets with more than 10,000 adults aged 18-75 years.

Further information: https://www.tripadvisor.com/TravelTrendsReportJan2022

The World Travel and Tourism Council has released a new analysis of staff shortages which projects up to one in 13 jobs will likely remain unfilled in 2022. The report produced in partnership with Oxford Economics analysed staff shortages across the U.S., U.K., Spain, France, Italy and Portugal. It outlines recommendations for governments and businesses to tackle labour shortage crisis including facilitating labour mobility and remote working, providing safety nets, upskilling the workforce, retaining talent and promoting education.

Further information: https://wttc.org/Portals/0/Documents/Reports/2021/WTTC-Staff-Shortages.pdf

Messe Berlin has advised the in-person edition of ITB Berlin 2022 will not take place as originally planned due to the coronavirus pandemic. ITB Berlin will be back on 8 March 2023 at the Berlin Exhibition Grounds.

Further information: https://itb.com/en/

The Adventure Travel World Summit will be held in the Lugano region of Ticino, Switzerland from 3-6 October 2022. The focus of the event will be Sustainable Tourism with themes around the elements of fire, water, air, and earth.

Further information: https://www.adventuretravel.biz/events/summit/switzerland-2022/