Australians understand the appeal of the Sunshine Coast with its beautiful beaches, incredible wildlife and all-round favourable weather.
Now thanks to one talented pocked-sized dancing sensation, the destination’s attractiveness has made its way across the Pacific and into the booming American tourism market.
In case you missed last night’s big news, the petite hero we’re referring to is Bindi Irwin (the daughter of the late Steve Irwin), who successfully out-danced army hero Alek Skarlatos and Backstreet Boys’ Nick Carter to win the final of the US Dancing with the Stars (DWTS).
Just like her father, Bindi plays a big role as a Sunshine Coast tourism icon and even attributed a few of her DWTS performances to her late father, Australia Zoo and the Sunshine Coast.
If that’s not enough to give the destination a boost amongst US viewers, a koala at Australia Zoo was named Derek after her dancing partner – a dancer with a strong social media presence.
Sunshine Coast Destination’s CEO, Simon Ambrose, said that with millions of viewers, Bindi Irwin’s success in DWTS is likely to have a very positive effect for US tourism to Australia and the Sunshine Coast.
“She has consistently spruiked the Sunshine Coast during her performances, and with Americans’ love of Australian wildlife and nature, and Bindi’s earthy, genuine character, her impact could be considerable.”
Simon Ambrose, Sunshine Coast Destination CEO
“The Americans fell in love with her father, and have now fallen in love with her. We will be working hard with Australia Zoo to translate her high profile into attracting new visitors to Australia and the Sunshine Coast.
“The favourable dollar, combined with Americans past interest in characters such as Crocodile Dundee, create ideal conditions for promoting the destination and our unique attractions.”
Bindi is expected to return to the Sunshine Coast next weekend for her brother Robert’s 12th birthday on 1 December.
To the year ending June 2015, the Sunshine Coast attracted 14,000 visitors from the United States.
