Following the success of the 2025 event, Tourism Central Australia is hosting another Central Australia Tourism Exchange (CATE) in Alice Springs on 24 March 2026.
CATE is a dynamic, fast-paced tourism exchange designed to connect operators from across Central Australia with key industry stakeholders — from distribution partners and visitor-centre staff to major NT tourism decision-makers.
Last year’s event was a standout success, bringing together 38 exhibitors and 39 participants for an afternoon of productive conversations, new partnerships, and strong industry alignment. Building on that momentum, CATE 2025 is set to be even more impactful and bigger than last year.
At CATE, exhibitors present their offering in a series of concise, one-on-one “speed-date” style sessions. Each operator receives 8 minutes of focused time with representatives from Visitor Information Centres, distribution partners, Tourism Australia, ATEC and other frontline staff. It’s the ideal environment to highlight what's new, share updates, and position your business for the year ahead.
Some of the attendees of CATE 2025
CATE 2026 is taking tourism networking and industry engagement to the next level. This year, Tourism Central Australia is partnering with the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) to bring 30+ buyers into the region, creating an unmatched opportunity to connect, strengthen trade relationships, and expand your market reach.
The refreshed format features a dynamic program of networking events, product showcases, and immersive experiences, highlighting the region’s unique tourism offerings. The trade event will kick off the evening before, with a consumer-facing Showcase event. Here’s a snapshot of what to expect:
Central Australian Tourism Showcase (Consumer-Facing)
Time: 5:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Location: Alice Springs Convention Centre (indoors & outdoors)
What’s Included: Full set-ups from tourism operators + incentives for attendees
Why Attend: Kick off CATE 2026 in style, showcase your business to the public, and generate consumer interest in your offerings.
Morning Activities (8:30 – 11:00 am) – ATEC Buyers Only
Group 1: Art Class with Anna Dakin, Arts Tours of Australia
Group 2: SEIT Alice Springs Tour — visit Reptile Centre, RFDS, School of the Air
Lunch provided at The Convention Centre between 11:30 and 12:30 pm.
Afternoon (12:30 – 5:00 pm) - CATE B2B
Location: Alice Springs Convention Centre
Who Attends: 25+ ATEC Buyers, Frontline Staff, and Sellers
Program: Welcome, followed by one-on-one appointment sessions between operators and buyers
Why Attend: Direct trade engagement with key buyers and frontline staff to build partnerships and showcase your products
Evening (6:00 - 9:00 pm) - Welcome Event
Location: Alice Springs Desert Park
What’s Included: Outback BBQ and Nocturnal Tour
25 March 2026 – Join us for the Explore NT trade event
🔗 Direct access to 30+ key buyers from across Australia
📢 Showcase your business in consumer and trade-facing events
🤝 Strengthen trade relationships and expand your market reach
🎨 Participate in immersive experiences that highlight Central Australia’s unique culture, nature, and attractions
💼 Be part of a next-level program that builds on last year’s success and positions your business for growth
Secure your spot at CATE! Register your intention to attend by providing details here - it's FREE to attend!
Countdown to CATE 2026
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