Boutique tourism and lifestyle PR agency, Barking Owl Communications, has been appointed to manage the integrated communications program for The Maria Island Walk.

This award-winning Australian walk takes in the amazing landscape, history and wildlife of Maria Island, off the east coast of Tasmania over three nights and four days.

Ian Johnstone, who started the Walk 14 years ago, is recognised as one of Australia's leading tourism operators.  “Maria Island is one of this country's most spectacular and deeply interesting destinations. Its importance has given it both National Park status and also World Heritage designation for the Darlington penal colony precinct. And with Tourism Australia's recent focus on coastal and aquatic offerings, we believed it was perfect timing to appoint a PR agency to tell our story more broadly.”

“The Maria Island Walk is always an eye-opener for our guests. They are amazed to find a Noah's Ark of rare and unusual Tasmanian wombats, kangaroos, amazing birdlife and a fast-growing insurance population of Tasmanian Devils in abundance on this island sanctuary. Partner that with the stunning landscapes and the complex history of the destination and you have an incredible story to tell,” Johnstone continued.

Barking Owl Communications has a long history of working with clients in spectacular wilderness locations including Wilpena Pound Resort in SA, Wildman Wilderness Lodge in the NT and El Questro in WA. 

Owner, Jill Collins said “The Maria Island Walk fits perfectly into our portfolio and also allows us to bring our expertise from other walking experiences and incredible Tasmanian products to this new program.”  

The program will incorporate a Visiting Journalist Program, social media outreach, and partnership activity among other key elements.

Note to editors:

About The Maria Island Walk

The award winning Maria Island Walk is a fully guided three night, four day journey into one of Australia's most spectacular destinations.  A maximum of ten guests per group and two guides begin their journey in Hobart with a short scenic drive to Triabunna.  A relaxing boat trip with frequent sightings of seals, dolphins and spectacular sea birds delivers them to the Island where they walk between wilderness camps taking in the landscapes, wildlife and history of the destination. The final night of the Walk is spent at historic Bernacchi House in the settlement of Darlington.  Walks depart daily from 1 October to 1 May each year.

Guests can now also visit Maria Island in the winter season with the recent introduction of a three day lodge-based Winter Escape package.

About Barking Owl Communications

Barking Owl Communications is a Sydney-based boutique PR agency specialising in media relations and integrated communications programs for the travel and tourism industry. Our reputation is for creative and strategic advice to help deliver great outcomes for the client and agency.

Barking Owl combines in-depth experience, solid media relationships and an approachable style comprising a team of consultants who share passion for and extensive knowledge of the travel and tourism industry.

The agency was founded by Jill Collins who has extensive experience in both the US and Australia spearheading programs for clients such as Expedia, Boeing, Christchurch and Canterbury Tourism and Hamilton Island/qualia.

For further information:

Jill Collins

Jill.collins@barkingowlcommunications.com.au

0417 654 474