by Mat Churchill


It was a milestone that, unlike Facebook's millionth member, almost went unnoticed as tourismportdouglas.com.au racked up its one millionth page view since January last year.

Company director Josh McConnell, said the website's popularity can be attributed to the way people around the world feel about Port Douglas, both as a holiday destination and a place to live.

"It's a portal to anything to do with Port Douglas. It's endless what you can find on tourismportdouglas.com.au which incorporates The Newsport Daily news service," Mr McConnell said.

"Whether you're thinking about visiting our area or you're a local, there's always something of value to look at."

The total number of page views of the website represents a 66% increase on the previous period from January 2009 to January 2010 (which in itself was a 47% increase on the 2008/09 period).

"It's important for our members because it provides them greater opportunities and shows their businesses to more people."

Mr McConnell expects a similar rate of growth in the coming year. "Not only because of the great information on our website, but people are far more serious about accessing the internet for all their information whether it be news content or tourism. It's the way of the future and it'll just grow and grow."

What is most notable is the increase in mobile traffic. From having zero visits via mobile technology in 2008 and just over 1,800 in 2009, over 31,000 web pages on tourismportdouglas.com.au were accessed in 2010.

"Now with the help of the mobile phenomenon that's where most of the internet use and visitation is going to come from. We'll certainly be making sure that all our websites are adaptable and compatible to iPhones, Androids, iPads etcetera as it has to be."

Mr McConnell urged businesses who are members or have a listing on tourismportdouglas.com.au to be ready to take advantage of the growing trend.

"You want to be able to convert the referrals from tourismportdouglas.com.au into sales for your business. With these figures set to continue growing you need to make sure your website is efficient enough to close the deal."