Swap the drudgery of the inbox for the beauty of the Outback, and ditch the 9-5 rat race for a crocodile park, as you could enjoy the experience of a lifetime working in Australia’s Northern Territory. From Tuesday 14th February Tourism Northern Territory, in conjunction with STA Travel and Qantas, is offering three young people the chance to escape the doom and gloom in the UK to win three very unusual paid jobs in the Territory. Sunshine, friendly locals and an unforgettable time guaranteed.
Work DiffereNT in 2012 and apply to win one of these three jobs:
- Crocodile Attendant: Say ‘in a while, crocodile’ to your office job and help out with the mighty saltwater crocs at Darwin’s Crocosaurus Cove. Work across various departments including ticketing and retail, as well as helping out with the crocs and reptiles. The job will cover a three month period from April to June. 2012.
- Pearl Farm Deckhand: Your new office will be the open ocean off the spectacular north Australian coastline. As a deckhand, you’ll be working on board a vessel responsible for the shell cleaning and culturing process – an essential role for Paspaley Pearls. The role is for six months commencing in April 2012.
- Cameleer: saddle up for this awesome Central Australian job that will see you getting to know 35 working camels at Uluru Camel Tours. As a guide, your days will be spent out in the desert to the inspring backdrop of the famous Uluru (Ayers Rock). A three month position from April to June 2012.
To win, applicants should simply head to www.workdiffereNT2012.com, choose the role they’d like to apply for, upload a CV and explain within 1,000 characters why they are the right candidate for the job.
As part of the prize successful candidates will also win international return flights to Australia, a one-year Working Holiday Visa, seven nights’ accommodation on arrival and discounted touring, arranged by STA Travel. Applicants must fulfil the Working Holiday Visa criteria and have an insatiable sense of adventure. Terms and conditions apply.
But life can’t be all work and no play. It pays to explore the Northern Territory – home to the real Outback – with rugged landscapes, extraordinary wildlife and culture and fantastic weather. And if one of the three roles up for grabs aren’t right for you, there are plenty more jobs available. Across the Territory a staggering 20,000 jobs are expected to be created in the next five years alone across a variety of industries. Check out the range of jobs at www.theterritory.com.au/whm.
This year marks 30 years since the ’82 Conflict in the Falkland Islands. Falklands specialist operator, Travel In Depth, is looking for participants to lace up their boots and sign up for this incredible challenge to re-create the famous ‘yomp’ (or tab as the British Army refer to it) of the ’82 conflict. The 60+ mile trek, taking place in November 2012, will raise money for charity and commemorate the courage and spirit of the soldiers who laid down their lives or were wounded during the conflict.
Taking place from 7-11 November 2012, this rewarding trek will follow in the footsteps of 45 Commando and 3 Para as they fought their way across the remote wilderness of East Falkland during the liberation of the Islands. Starting in Port San Carlos the route finishes in the capital, Stanley, in time for the Remembrance Day Service. The 2012 yomp will take five days (the iconic ’82 yomp took three days) and will be led by a serving Royal Marines Colour Sergeant Mountain Leader. The complete trip runs from 3-17 November (excluding flying time) with time for pre and post touring in and around Stanley, plus the opportunity to discover some of the Outer Islands that make up the Falklands archipelago.
To join this not-for-profit endeavour, participants must raise £5,900 of which a minimum contribution of £1,500 will go to charity. Places are limited to a maximum of eight participants.
Funds raised will be divided between three highly respected charities – Help for Heroes, Combat Stress and local Falklands charity SAMA 82 (The South Atlantic Medal Association).
This will be a tough challenge but efforts will be rewarded with the dramatic landscapes of this far-flung British Overseas Territory. They’ll be time to get close to some incredible wildlife, learn about life in the Falklands and meet the genuine, warm-hearted islanders.
The challenge is being organised by tour operator Travel In Depth and the Falkland Islands Tourist Board.
2012 is already turning out to be a rollercoaster of a year in the world of travel, and it’s only the start of February. We’ve hand-picked five noteworty happenings so far…
1) Dominating the front pages in January was the Costa Concordia tragedy. The liner ran aground and capsized off the island of Giglio with 4,200 passengers on board on 13 January. However, the media haven’t tired of this story yet, with much controversy still surrounding the Captain, Costa Cruises offering passengers from the stricken ship around £9,200 in compensation and a death toll still to be confirmed. Environmental concerns raised, the removal of the ship could take between seven to 10 months.
2) On a more positive note is the lucrative gap year market. There has been a 35% increase in students booking gap year experiences and a 28% increase in demand for ‘mini gap’ trips or ‘snap years’ according to youth tour operator STA Travel. The gap year industry is thought to be worth £1.3 billion. Also seizing this ‘gap’ in the market, is adventure travel specialist, Explore, who has launched a new brand – Edge – catering for the 18-30 adventure travel market. Its 75 small group trips offer itineraries in over 40 countries. www.edgeadventures.com
3) Late January was set to see the gloom lift at UK travel agencies with early booking discounts and the urge to escape post-Xmas blues boosting bookings. ABTA estimated that between 15-21 January, 2m people would book a break ‘as the best possible pick-me-up’…Time will tell to see if this rang true and if the trend will continue. Let’s hope so. Read more
4) Aviation continues to be a hard hit sector. Its inclusion within the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) began on January 1st. A number of countries – including the US, China, Japan, Brazil, India and Russia – voiced concerns about the scheme, and Europe’s largest carrier by revenue, Lufthansa, has expressed concerns that ‘retaliatory measures’ could damage the European aviation industry. There is no sign that the EU will reverse its decision.
5) Finally, whilst passengers will not yet be fastening their seatbelts for a landing at ‘Boris Island’ Airport, Heathrow has announced an Olympic record – Monday 13 August will be the busiest day the airport has ever seen with 138,000 passengers, 45% more than usual. This is the day after the Games’ closing ceremony. Travel guru Simon Calder questions the figures unveiled here….
Buoyed by his success this week in forcing the Government on to the back foot over the bonus of RBS Chief Executive Stephen Hester, Ed Miliband chose to focus the majority of his questions at PMQs on the issue of “top pay.” The decision resulted in a clear victory for the Labour leader and highlighted the difficulties that the Prime Minister faces on the issue.
Being in opposition allows Miliband to take a somewhat opportunist stance, whilst the Government is forced to adopt a more cautious position in order to keep the City on side. Nevertheless, the Labour leader’s attack clearly had Cameron flustered and he was forced to trot out the same, increasingly tired sound bites blaming Labour for failing to properly regulate the financial sector.
The Labour leader even managed to hit the mark with a couple of one-liners this week (a rare feat indeed for the much maligned Miliband), and referring to the Tory “Cabinet of millionaires” caused hilarity amongst his backbenchers.
As the session went on, Cameron regained his usual withering demeanour, aided by the Conservative Whips’s success in loading the second half of the session with questions on tonight’s vote on a Benefits cap. With Miliband unable (and unwilling) to reply Cameron was able to portray Labour as a roadblock to reform on an issue where he enjoys overwhelming public support.
Tomorrow’s headlines are likely focus on tonight’s vote, yet there will be some optimism among Labour MPs that their Leader’s long-promised green shoots of recovery are starting to take hold.
The Falkland Islands Tourist Board (FITB) has appointed Keene as its UK representatives to help drive awareness of this unspoilt wildlife haven. Travel specialists Keene will be responsible for helping increase land-based visitor numbers to this relatively untapped destination in the South Atlantic. The contract commences 1 February 2012.
“Keene already handles our PR and have played a key role in raising the profile of the island over the past four years, positioning the Falklands as a premier destination for intrepid travellers including birdwatchers, photographers and nature enthusiasts. They were the natural choice to re-introduce the Islands as a travel destination to the travel trade industry” Commented FITB General Manager Paul Trowell.
This year brings interesting times for the Falkland Islands with the 30th anniversary of the ’82 Conflict and two Royal visits planned from the Duke of Cambridge (who has been deployed to the Falklands in February) and the Duke of Kent.
The focus of the brief is to raise the profile of the destination and promote its wildlife wonders – including some 750,000 penguins, dozens of rare birdlife as well as offshore highlights including orcas hunting seals and dolphins playing in the surf. Keene will also promote the destination’s incredible history and amazing islands – over 740 islands make up the Falklands archipelago, lying 400 miles off the coast of South America.
Keene will be the main point of contact for tour operators and cruise companies already selling or with potential to sell holidays to the Falklands. A key thrust will be devising co-operative campaigns, running trade famil programmes, agent training and pushing the pushing the tourist board’s e-learning programme.
For further information, trade and media should contact Suzanne Holiday on 0207 839 2140 or falklandstourism@keenepa.co.uk.
With a New Year and a new venture, Richard Branson has started 2012 by re-branding all Northern Rock banks to Virgin Money which he plans to have finished by September. This year at Keene, we will be looking out for campaigns with the wow factor and sharing them with you on a monthly basis. With 26 years of experience under our belts, we believe we know a good campaign when we see one!
Richard Branson has created a buzz around the launch of his new Virgin Money brand by celebrating Virgin’s success to date. So who was invited and what got everyone talking about the event?
Branson kicked off the launch by swinging a champagne bottle at the building, which appeared to shatter the 270 degree projection immersed on the building - at which point everyone was curious to find out what he was going to do next. The projection featured a three minute film celebrating Virgin’s 40 year history and embracing Branson’s slogan for Virgin Money – 40 years Better Now in a bank. We were impressed to discover that Richard not only invited his key contacts but also his twitter followers and Facebook fans to the launch party – a nice personal touch from Branson, just disappointed we didn’t find out in time to go along.
The launch party has been supported by a television advertising campaign, which continues to celebrate Virgin’s success to date. Well do you think Branson can make banking better? Watch this space.
Running 42.2km is a feat unto itself but sometimes it is about the destination, not just the journey, so why not put a whole new twist on marathon running and sign up for the exotic St Helena Marathon? Applicants are now open for runners to participate in what must surely lay claim to be one of the most remote marathons in the world, taking place on Sunday 24th June 2012.
This challenging far-flung event involves a route that winds past some of the island’s key attractions, including High Knoll Fort, Diana’s Peak (the highest point on the island) and Plantation House, residence of the island’s Governor. The course is hilly, but rewarding views along the way help runners pass the time and the mileage. To glimpse flora and fauna you can’t see anywhere else in the world, sign up for the 2012 marathon.
As well as the 42.2km course, runners can opt to participate in a half marathon, 10km or 3km races as part of a wider week-long Festival of Running. One of the festival highlights is the famed Jacob’s Ladder Challenge – a 699-step climb out of the capital, Jamestown, which sees brave participants emerge 200-metres higher.
There is a £2 entry fee for runners with proceeds going to the National Amateur Sports Association of St Helena (NASAS). Successful runners receive medals and certificates, with special prizes for outstanding achievements awarded by the island’s Governor.
Until the island’s first airport arrives in 2015, international runners travel to the South Atlantic island aboard one of the last working Royal Mail Ships (RMS St Helena) which can accommodate 128-passengers, ensuring that this marathon remains an exclusive event. The five-day voyage from Cape Town gives runners the perfect opportunity to rest their legs pre and post race.
A handful of entrants usually descend from different parts of the world and in recent years this has included the UK, Canada, USA, Germany and South Africa.
Book with 2:09 events who is offering a 23-day package (including the marathon) from £3,199 per person. Valid for travel 15 June – 7 July 2012, the price includes return flights to Cape Town with Virgin Atlantic, two nights in Cape Town, 10 days on the RMS St Helena (including all meals on board) in a shared cabin and accommodation in St Helena. http://www.209events.com/event.php?event=251#
From incredible wildlife encounters to quirky events, the Falkland Islands offer plenty to keep visitors and locals entertained. With the 30th anniversary this year and an action-packed calendar of events to watch or participate in, why not coincide a visit with one of these top events.
January & February – Newborns for the New Year: The Islands’ wildlife wonders are at their finest during the warmer weather from December to February. It’s a fantastic time for nature lovers and photographers to visit, with a trip to the outlying islands to marvel at the new life, a must.
There’s the chance to spot sea lion pups, suckling from their mothers and foraging gentoo penguin parents are all a flurry in February as they have their work cut out feeding the huge chick ‘crèches’, while Magellanic penguin chicks will leave their burrows for the first time.
February 26 – 29 - Camp Sports Week: Marking the traditional end of the sheep shearing season, this colourful Falklands event celebrates everything about the glorious countryside – known locally as ‘Camp’ originating from the Spanish word ‘campo’, or countryside. The Islanders unwind with big family get-togethers and a host of events including sheep shearing, dog trials, horse racing and barbeques.
March 18 – On your marks for the world’s most southerly marathon: Forget London and New York, for a real challenge don your running shoes for the world’s most southerly AIMS-certified marathon. The Standard Chartered Bank Stanley Marathon, now in its seventh year, is widely regarded as one of the most challenging marathon courses, but participants are rewarded with magnificent views around the Islands’ capital, Stanley. Proceeds raised go to ‘Seeing is Believing’, the bank’s charity for visually impaired people.
June 14 – Liberation Day Parade:This year marks the 30th anniversary of the end of the Argentine occupation of the Falkland Islands in 1982. Islanders gather at Christ Church Cathedral to mark the occasion with a thanksgiving service, followed by wreath laying at the Liberation Monument and a military parade. The day is a public holiday in the Falkland Islands.
June 22 (tbc)- On the count of three…take a mid-winter swim: Not for the fainthearted, the Saturday before mid-winter’s day (midsummer in the Northern hemisphere), a handful of plucky residents take to the chilly Atlantic waters to raise money for charity. Watch the brave swimmers or, better still, join them at Surf Bay, near Stanley. Mulled wine is served afterwards in the pub in Stanley!
August 14- Falklands Day: This day marks the first recorded sighting of the Falkland Islands by English sea captain John Davis in 1592.
September – Black-browed albatross and elephant seals return:Known locally as ‘mollymawks’, the black-browed albatross flock to the Falkland Islands this month to breed. Their return is heralded by their noisy bray and fanned tail courting displays. The largest of seal species, the elephant seal, also arrive in September.
September 1 – Gone fishing – Trout fishing seasonofficiallybegins: Whether casting out into the open ocean or enjoying the rivers and treeless banks, the strong runs of fish on the Falklands will surprise many a keen fisherman. The combination of plentiful fish and the pristine conditions of the waterways, make for a real angler’s paradise. September to October is the best time to catch brown trout and sea trout, with fish in excess of 10lbs regularly hooked. The biggest sea trout caught has been recorded as a whopping 22lbs!
September 8-9 – Check out the local arts and crafts:From homespun wool to rugs and jewellery, browse the impressive annual exhibition of arts and crafts on display, held at the Falkland Island Community School in Stanley.
September 28 (tbc) – Take your partners for the Falklands Conservation Charity Ball: This black-tie affair is the charity event of the year raising funds for conserving the wildlife heritage of the Falklands, serving up a fabulous evening of fizz, food and frenzied dancing. Place a bid at the auction when local art goes under the hammer.
November 24 (tbc) – Charity Fire Engine Pull: This fun family day sees the Falklands’ Fire and Rescue Service race to beat the clock over 1.7 miles with a 14-ton fire engine in tow. Other event highlights include two teams competing in a hose relay.
December – Egg hatching:December is one of the most exciting months in the Falklands withMagellanic penguins and black-browed albatross among the varied species whose eggs hatch this month. Killer whales can also be spotted circling the shore of Sea Lion Island as elephant and sea lion pups take their first waddle.
December 8 – Battle Day Parade:This national holiday commemorates the second major naval engagement of the First World War when a small British fleet destroyed the German South Atlantic Squadron. The 1914 Memorial, constructed on a headland west of Government House, is the focus for a service and RAF fly by. The day kicks off with a well-attended, colourful parade.
December 26-28 – They’re off – Stanley Sports Association Race Meeting:Stanley thunders to the sound of hooves with the annual Boxing Day race meeting providing fun and entertainment for all the family. A Christmas tradition, a horse race has been held in Stanley for over a century. Expect to see top class locally and internationally bred horses battling it out as well as side events from traditional gymkhanas to bull riding.
We are looking for a graduate (2:1 minimum), with relevant experience, with good analytical and writing skills to join our friendly hard-working team for an initial 3 month period. You will be enthusiastic, creative, a lively self-starter, and excellent communicator, happy to work in a team and yet be able to manage your own workload.
Your role will be to assist both our Public Affairs and Public Relations teams in providing communications campaigns for a number of our clients. You will have the opportunity to gain experience of a range of policy areas and disciplines.
If you would like to apply for this position, please email your CV and covering letter to Rory Fletcher at rory@keenepa.co.uk no later than close of business on Wednesday 25th January.
The New Year is traditionally the time when politicians, journalists and commentators kick-start the news cycle by making predictions about the coming year. As the last week has been no different, Keene thought it would save you the trouble of trawling through the papers yourself and bring you some of the most interesting predictions out there.
Prime Minister David Cameron used his New Year’s message to argue that the Jubilee and the Olympics will help get Britain ‘up to strength’ in 2012 despite the tough economic climate, while Labour leader Ed Miliband claimed that his party will rise to face the challenges coming this year. Foremost of these will be the economy and the NHS, the latter of which Shadow Chancellor Ed Balls predicted will be the ‘massive story’ of 2012.
In Parliament, the BBC’s Parliamentary correspondent Mark D’Arcy has raised the spectre of a tough year for the relationship between the House of Commons and the House of Lords, with the Upper House seemingly likely to make changes to a number of pieces of legislation and the Government looking in detail at plans to reform the House of Lords.
Elsewhere, political Blog Guido Fawkes has called the London Mayoral election in favour of Conservative incumbent Boris Johnson, and also predicted that Margaret Thatcher will ‘outlive the euro as we now know it’. Times columnist Daniel Finkelstein makes one of the less dramatic predictions of the New Year with his assertion that very little will change in 2012, with the Coalition remaining in tact ‘whether it likes it or not’.
Looking further afield, the BBC’s Diplomatic correspondent James Robbins has said 2012 will be a ‘dangerously rudderless year with key leaders in the US, China, Russia and France distracted by elections or changes at the top.’
This may also contribute to the prediction by the Daily Telegraph’s Ambrose Evans-Pritchard that there will be a ‘global downturn on all fronts’ in 2012, echoing a BBC survey which found that the vast majority of economists are predicting a European recession in 2012.
He’s also suggested that the upcoming French Presidential election will return the Socialist François Hollande, with the incumbent Nicolas Sarkozy failing to make the run-off after being beaten by The Front National’s Marie Le Pen.
Andrew Rawnsley writing in the Observerreinforces the predictions of many other commentators including that of the Times’ Washington correspondent Alexandra Frean by predicting that the American electorate will stick with Obama come November’s Presidential election.
In the Middle East the Washington Post’s David Ignatius has claimed that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad is ‘probably on his last legs’, a view shared by many other commentators including the Daily Beast’s Michael Tomasky, who has predicted that the Free Syrian Army will march into Damascus in March.
And if none of those come true, at least we can fall back on the ancient Mayan prediction that the world will end in December.
