The Oprah Winfrey Show is travelling throughout Australia in December to film at least three episodes that will air in the United States in early 2011.
The partnership covers accommodation for the more than 300 ultimate viewers who will be joining Oprah from the United States for Oprah’s Ultimate Australian Adventure, and the programme’s production crew. Accommodation will be provided at InterContinental,Crowne Plaza and Holiday Inn properties throughout Australia.
Andrew McEvoy, managing director, Tourism Australia commented, “We were looking for a partner with extraordinary hotels in the many key locations that The Oprah Winfrey Show’s audience will experience during their Australian adventure. IHG fits the bill. Their strong brands will help us show why there really is nothing like Australia.”
Bruce McKenzie, chief operating officer Australasia for Inter-Continental Hotels Group added, “This is an extraordinary opportunity, not only to share our brands, products and experiences with viewers in 145 countries, but also to contribute to showcasing Australia’s appeal to a truly global audience. We’re honoured that our hotels are part of the effort to demonstrate what’s truly unique and special about Australia and we’re looking forward to welcoming The Oprah Winfrey Show’s ultimate viewers.”
Tourism Australia is also working closely with “The Oprah Winfrey Show”, which will enable Australia to be showcased to audiences worldwide as part of the shows, Tourism Australia Chairman, Geoff Dixon said Australia will be profiled on at least two full episodes.
Dixon said Qantas Airways, Tourism New South Wales, the Sydney Opera House, Tourism Victoria, Tourism Queensland, R.M.Williams and Network 10 were also partners in the venture. Other Australian States and Territories have expressed active support and will be given the opportunity to be involved through editorial profiling opportunities.
“The fact that Ms Winfrey has chosen to share her first visit to Australia with her television audience is a huge backing for our country and provides an amazing opportunity for Australian tourism,” Dixon said.
“We can showcase why There’s nothing like Australia to audiences around the world and encourage them to come and explore our country for themselves whether it’s their first time or their fifth time.”
Tourism Australia’s partnership with “The Oprah Winfrey Show,” will see Ms Winfrey, her correspondents, and 300 of Oprah’s most loyal viewers travel on an eight day, seven-night trip to Australia, to film at least two episodes of the programme during December.
The “Oprah” show cameras will be on hand to capture their journeys around Australia as well as bring everyone together at the steps of the Sydney Opera House –or as it will be known that week the “Oprah House” – for a spectacular show featuring Australian talent and special guests. Episodes will air first in the US in early 2011 and then rollout to other global markets.