Geological landscapes shape who we are and how we live. The interest in Geotourism worldwide is growing, as people are seeking to unearth the stories behind our extraordinary geological features. This trend has the potential to give rise to a new tourism product for regional Australia ..... Geotourism.
FACET hosted the Inaugural Global Geotourism Conference in 2008 and has continued to advocate the tourism opportunities for Western Australia in embracing our geological heritage.
This two day FACET Conference will raise awareness of our ancient geoheritage and explore tourism opportunities linked to Western Australia's unique landscapes.
The program will include:
Day 1 - Conference & Networking Sundowner in Perth
Day 2 - Geotourism Experience & Workshop on Rottnest Island
Proudly sponsored by the Rottnest Island Authority
Conference delegates can also choose post conference options of a weekend on Rottnest Island or travelling to Mt Magnet (600km north east of Perth) for the Astro Rock Festival.
See 'other information' for more details which will be updated regularly.
Lyn Beazley, AO FTSE FACE CIE (Aust)
WA Australian of the Year 2015
Patron FACET Conference 2015
As Chief Scientist of Western Australia for seven years, I had the privilege of seeing many examples of the amazing geoheritage across the length and breadth of our great State. Yet every location on our planet has its own unique geoheritage that increasingly is being appreciated by local communities and visitors alike.
We have all experienced entering a new location and wondering what, over geological time, has shaped the hills and valleys, the mountains and the plateaus, shore lines, craters and canyons: and the list goes on. We also see signs of how humans shape the landscape by activities such as mining. Some places are particularly special and we can learn of their social and cultural significance. All these aspects offer amazing opportunities for global geotourism as we come to realise the benefits it brings. These benefits include alerting communities to the wonders around them and bringing income as well as helping to ensure our geoheritage is protected.
I am honoured to be Patron of the FACET 2015 Conference and commend it to you. I am sure you will learn much, benefit from the networking opportunities and play your part in ensuring the advancement of the geoheritage movement and the growth of global geotourism. I welcome you all and wish you an enjoyable and rewarding conference.
Conference Objectives:
* Raise community awareness and appreciation of our unique ancient
geological heritage, with industry leaders, key stakeholders and the
community;
* Explore the economic potential and social benefits of geotourism for regional communities;
* Showcase best practise and share up to date information on new initiatives and developments within geotourism;
* Encourage and foster collaboration and partnerships amongst
tourism operators, government and other industry stakeholders to explore
geotourism opportunities in Western Australia;
* Discuss geotourism opportunities for Rottnest Island; and
* Provide an opportunity for delegates to build knowledge and networks associated with geotourism and geoheritage.
Conference Outcomes:
* Increase awareness and support for the development of Geotourism in Western Australia; and
* Development of a model for geotourism that can be used by regional communities.
CONFERENCE SPONSORS:
FACET would like acknowledge the following Major Conference Sponsors
Conference Supporters