Cultural Attractions of Australia (CAOA), a collection of Australia’s most iconic attractions, has announced two prestigious Canberra-based institutions as new members to its distinguished collective: the National Portrait Gallery and the Australian Institute of Sport. These attractions are set to enhance Cultural Attractions offerings, aligning with its aims and objectives to promote cultural tourism.
Part of Tourism Australia’s Signature experiences, CAOA celebrates the diverse history, art, culture and sport that define this nation’s identity. Now comprising 19 members, it unites Australia’s cultural icons and provides a range of curated experiences designed to connect individuals and groups with curators, artists and knowledgeable guides allowing them to enjoy a unique perspective of each of these significant attractions.
“The Australian Institute of Sport and the National Portrait Gallery are excellent additions to the Cultural Attractions of Australia collective, which continues to showcase the best of Australia’s cultural offerings to the world,” highlights Phillipa Harrison, Managing Director of Tourism Australia. “The growth of the CAOA collective supports Tourism Australia’s commitment to highlighting the rich and diverse range of cultural experiences on offer.”
The National Portrait Gallery provides a boutique art gallery experience that brings visitors face-to-face with portraits of those who have shaped the nation. Through the art of portraiture, the Gallery shares Australian stories to deepen understanding and appreciation of the nation’s people – their identities, histories, cultures, creativity, and diversity. With its intimate, architecturally designed building, the National Portrait Gallery offers a space that reflects the diverse faces of Australia.
National Portrait Gallery Director, Bree Pickering said the National Portrait Gallery was the only cultural institution with the express mandate to share the evolution of Australian identity through art. “Through portraiture, the Gallery encourages conversation about who we are, where we’ve come from and who we want to be as a nation. We are thrilled to join the Cultural Attractions of Australia collective and bring unique experiences that will captivate and inspire local and international audiences. Joining the collective also allows us to leverage CAOA trade and industry partnerships that will connect the Gallery with new markets and visitors.”
The Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) is synonymous with sporting excellence and innovation. As a world-class facility, the AIS not only nurtures elite athletes but also offers visitors an immersive experience into the world of high-performance sport. Through interactive tours and exhibitions, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of Australia’s sporting achievements and the dedication behind them. The inclusion of the AIS in the CAOA collective underscores the importance of sport as a cultural pillar and a significant draw for tourists.
Australian Sports Commission CEO, Kieren Perkins, said sport is an integral part of Australia’s DNA.
“The AIS has played an incredibly important role in Australia’s sporting success on the international stage over the past four decades,” said Mr Perkins. “Some of the nation’s biggest names have trained and competed at the AIS Campus in Canberra and generations of students have been inspired to chase their dreams by visiting the iconic facility. Following the Australian Government’s recent commitment to revitalise the AIS Campus to support our athletes in the lead up to Brisbane 2032, we are delighted to join CAOA and ensure every Australian understands the benefits of sport.”
Both new members share a commitment to promoting cultural tourism in Australia. By joining the CAOA, the National Portrait Gallery and the Australian Institute of Sport are poised to contribute significantly to the collective’s mission. Their participation will help build greater awareness of the diverse cultural experiences available in Australia, encouraging more travellers to explore and appreciate the nation’s rich cultural landscape.
Cultural Attractions of Australia is a collective of 19 members uniting Australia’s landmark cultural attractions, which celebrate the country’s diverse cultural, historical and sporting influences. It offers curated, VIP, behind-the-scenes, pre-bookable experiences that are an ideal way for travellers to immerse themselves in the Australian culture.
Cultural Attractions of Australia members are:
Adelaide Oval
Art Gallery of New South Wales
Australian Institute of Sport (AIS)
Australian National Maritime Museum
Australian Parliament House
Australian War Memorial
Bangarra Dance Theatre
Fremantle Prison
Melbourne Cricket Ground
Mona (Museum of Old and New Art)
National Gallery of Australia
NGV (National Gallery of Victoria)
National Museum of Australia
National Portrait Gallery
Opera Australia
Port Arthur Historic Site
Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA)
Sovereign Hill
Sydney Opera House
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