Diplomatic Corps Visit to South Australia

I will host a visit by over 50 Ambassadors and High Commissioners and their spouses to South Australia from 1–3 May 2007.

This will be the eighth annual interstate regional tour by the Diplomatic Corps following previous visits to all other states and territories. This year will see a record number of participants.

These familiarisation visits provide opportunities for Canberra-based foreign diplomats to gain insights into Australian life outside the national capital, to experience first-hand the social and cultural diversity of Australia’s cities and regions and to witness unusual Australian enterprises and unique talents.

This visit will allow participants to appreciate some of South Australia’s economic strengths and defence and technological capabilities as well as its cultural heritage and scenic beauty. A highlight of the program will be a visit to BHP’s Olympic Dam copper and uranium mine 560km north of Adelaide, Australia’s largest underground mine. The group will visit ASC Pty Ltd, Flight Training Adelaide and the Defence Science and Technology Organisation. The program includes a meeting with the Premier of South Australia, the Hon Mike Rann MP and a reception hosted by the Lord Mayor of Adelaide Michael Harbison.

Media Inquiries: Mr Downer's office 02 6277 7500 - Departmental Media Liaison 02 6261 1555