Back to nature call

Sun, surf and sand have made the Gold Coast Australia's premier tourism destination - but people look likely to want something more and indigenous ventures could be a way to keep visitors coming, according to industry experts.

Tourism Futures conference convenor Tony Charters said he expected indigenous tourism to be a growth area from northern NSW to the Sunshine Coast in coming years. "Tourists come here for lifestyle, climate and unique cultural heritage experiences," said Mr Charters.

"I would expect more indigenous tourism concepts in the future - I think there is significant opportunities for it." says Martin Winter, Gold Coast Tourism CEO. "Both local and European visitors are looking for experiences as well as sights." Mr Winter said he expected to see a rise in demand for `holistic' experiences with nature-based tourism ventures.