The unique tastes of the Peel region were on show to leading international tourism academics recently as part of a push to develop excellence in the local industry.
Academics and industry experts from Canada, China, Germany, Italy and Monaco toured around the region thanks to a initiative lead by the Peel Development Commission (PDC) and Mandurah and Peel Tourism Organisation (MAPTO).
The development commission's chairwoman Paddi Creevey said the chance to show off was a great opportunity for the region.
"The PDC was honoured to welcome these important guests to the region to increase exposure of the amazing tourism offerings here in Peel, in alignment with a priority of the commission to develop tourism excellence,” she said.
Their itinerary included aquatic, adventure, cultural and wildlife experiences.
The international guests enjoyed Mandurah Cruises’ Wild Seafood Experience, noting its "uniqueness", and were "stunned" by Mandurah’s waterways and range of water experiences on offer.
Also of particular interest was indigenous culture.
Mandjoogoordap Dreaming's George Walley explained the history and cultural significance of the Thrombolites (Woggaal’s Noorook) and topped off their trip with a didgeridoo performance.
Curtin University's Dr Michael Volgger labelled the trip as a "world-class fusion of nature-based experiences and cultural insights into Aboriginal Australia".
“It was a spectacular day and the international visitors were definitely impressed by what Mandurah has on offer," he said.
PDC’s principal business development officer Wendy Muir said the broad range of speakers brought diverse insights from around the globe.
Ms Muir said it provided an "invaluable acumen into how WA can optimise its tourism offerings to different global markets”.
MAPTO’s Nadine Heinen said the visit by the international tourism experts had already reaped benefits.
"It was invaluable to see their reactions to the region firsthand and to be able to have frank discussions about what works and what can be improved on," she said.