Seminar to discuss transport and tourism

What is the role of an airport in increasing tourism and economic development, and what does it mean for the Gold Coast? These questions and more will be the focus of seminar taking place this Wednesday and Thursday July 6 and 7 at the Gold Coast campus of Southern Cross University.

The seminar, entitled Transport, Tourism and Regional Development, will feature presentations from international academics including Dr Anne Graham from the University of Westminster in the UK and Professor Kenneth Button from George Mason University in the USA as well as local experts in the field including Professor Kerry Brown from Southern Cross University and Dennis Chant, managing director of Queensland Airports Limited.

Professor Kerry Brown, director of the Research Centre for Tourism, Leisure and Work at Southern Cross University said the seminar would be of particular interest to anyone involved in business strategy and innovation, regional policy and planning or the transport and tourism sectors.

“The aim is to discuss the role of transport in the economic development of a region – as well as debate its strategic advantage in promoting a region like the Gold Coast,” said Professor Brown.

“Tourism is one indicator of economic development, but it is also subject to economic fluctuation, so we’ll also be investigating how sustainable it is as a key contributor to regional development.

“It’s about understanding the mix of economic activity that is required to best grow a region.”

Professor Kenneth Button said his presentation would focus on the importance of air transportation in facilitating economic development.

“The modern world relies heavily on air transportation, so it’s important to have the right airport, of the right size, in the right place,” said Professor Button.

“Given the global growth in tourism, air services play a vital role at exciting locations such as the Gold Coast.

“However, it’s not just a matter of tourism, an efficient airport is also important to support the personnel of the high-tech and high-income businesses of the service industry, who often fly frequently and require quality air services.”

Photo: Professor Kerry Brown (high resolution image available on request)