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Cairngorms

Cairngorms National Park to host International Interpretation Conference

25th September 2007

THE Cairngorms National Park is the setting for a major international interpretation conference next week.

The Vital Spark will celebrate and showcase interpretation practice in the Highlands; look at the significance of natural and cultural heritage and their importance for the tourism industry and reinforce the region’s position as a world-class leader in heritage interpretation.

It forms part of Highland 2007, a year-long celebration of Highland culture, and is being supported by Highland 2007; the Cairngorms National Park Authority (CNPA); Scottish Natural Heritage; Highlands and Islands Enterprise; VisitScotland and others.

The event is taking place at the Aviemore Highland Resort, from Sunday September 30th to Wednesday October 3rd. There will be a photo call on Monday October 1st from 8.45-9.30am.

The conference will focus on four themes:

  • The Vital Spark: Interpretation as the driver for cultural regeneration;
  • Creativity and innovation: Interpreting remote and fragile areas;
  • Voices in interpretation: Languages, cultures and communities and
  • Authenticity and re-interpretation: Traditional icons of the 21st century.

A number of renowned speakers will appear including: Shonaig Macpherson, Chair of the National Trust for Scotland; Jette Sandahl, Director Experience, Te Papa Tongarewa Museum, New Zealand and Susan Strauss, children’s author and wildlife interpreter, USA.

The event is open to those in the tourism and heritage sectors and will include a number of talks and workshops throughout the four days.

The conference will help to deliver one of the aims of the National Park – to promote understanding and enjoyment of the special qualities of the area as well as the seventh Priority for Action for 2007-2012 in the Cairngorms National Park Plan – Raising Awareness and Understanding of the Park.

David Green, the CNPA’s Convener, who is opening the event, said: “We are delighted that organisers have chosen the National Park to host this event.

“The Cairngorms National Park has important natural and cultural heritage. One of the Park’s aims is to raise the public’s understanding and enjoyment of that.

“This event will allow us to learn more about how we can engage with residents and visitors as well as help to build on the Highland’s already world-class reputation.”

Media and events inquiries should contact Shona MacLennan on 01599 534999 or email [email protected]  or Michael Glen, Conference Director, on 01738 621 996.