Holidaymakers are putting Bundaberg’s premier turtle and reef experiences on their 2022-23 Summer must-do list, with forward bookings kicking off with renewed strength in response to Mon Repos Turtle Encounter tickets going on sale.
With ticket sales for the unique turtle encounter having launched at 10 am on September 1st, Bundaberg Tourism saw an influx of approximately 30,000 visitors across bundabergregion.org, with more than 1,200 leads to other operators made within the first 24hr period of sales going live.
The Mon Repos Turtle Encounter is a primary draw card for the region across summer holidays with many Southeast Queenslanders securing their place to witness a natural wonder. This year, revived interest among interstate markets such as Sydney and Melbourne across the first day of sales was strong, showing an increase in consumer confidence from those across the border, and an encouraging sign for the region's tourism industry for the summer season ahead.
Renowned for our world-class rum and ginger beer, the region's pristine reef experiences and exquisite marine life are also driving demand, with holidaymakers recognizing Bundaberg as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the most accessible departure point for southerners.
Offering both day trips and overnight island escapes from the mainland, Bundaberg operators Lady Musgrave Experience and Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, are enticing travelers to explore the wonders of the reef with just a 30min flight or scenic boat ride from Bundaberg.
From swimming alongside giant marine life, including turtles and manta rays during the day, to overnight guests on the islands engaging in guided turtle nesting and hatching activities under the supervision of trained island staff, including marine biologists and Master Reef Guides. These enriching experiences offer visitors the chance to connect with our natural backyard, cementing a place in their hearts with memories to be shared with friends and family for years to come.
The Bundaberg region's turtle and reef offerings along with being the home to tipple tourism and Australia’s tastiest food bowl, presents the destination in a favourable light and are the key focus for the destination's Summer Campaign, assisting in the aim to extend visitors' length of stay and contributing to increased overnight visitor expenditure.
The annual Mon Repos Turtle Encounter is held each year from November to March and is the only ranger-led turtle encounter on Australia’s East Coast, operated by passionate Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service Rangers and volunteers, who support the largest concentration of nesting loggerhead turtles in the South Pacific region and who are critical to turtle conservation research.
Snapshot of September 1, 2022, ticket sale outcomes for industry:
• Approximately 30,000 visitors across bundabergregion.org in first 24hrs
• 1,200 direct leads to industry from bundabergreigon.org in first 24hrs (71% increase on leads to industry from first day of sales made in 2021/22)
• 255% increase on visitation to the Deals Page (bundabergregion.org/deals)
• Bundaberg Tourism’s consumer EDM drove 1,800+ direct clicks to the website
• 5% increase on total tickets sold within 24hrs when compared to the previous 2021/22 season, and further 16% increase on the 2020/21 season.
With additional tickets added to the 2022/23 turtle season, Mon Repos Turtle Encounter tickets are still available, and operators are encouraged to take advantage of the exposure which the region's reef and turtle experiences offer, by engaging in the region's summer campaign. To learn more on how to get involved, visit https://www.bundabergregion.org/corporate/opportunities-for-your-business.
