Phillip Island hosted its first group of international travel delegates since the pandemic.

In another boost to the local tourism economy, a delegation of Japanese travel trade agents visited the region, the first hosted familiarisation since Covid.

The visit was organised by Tourism Australia and Visit Victoria to re-establish travel packages to Melbourne and Victoria.

The Japanese delegates explored the island, with dinner at Beach HQ followed by the Penguin Parade.

Destination Phillip Island general manager Kim Storey welcomed the group and said the Japanese market to Australia in January was measured at 35 per cent above 2019 levels.

“We know more Australians will be holidaying overseas this year, and our opportunity to once again attract international visitors is an important priority,” Kim said.