Tour operators are to be met in Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, showcasing the beauty of England's longest lake and the region. Jennifer Cormack, sales and marketing director for Windermere Lake Cruises, said: "This is an exciting opportunity because Australian and New Zealand visitors can be a developing and significant part of our visitor economy. "We know Australians love the English Lake District and we hope this trade mission will encourage more and more of them to make the trip to see us.

" Research suggests that visitors from Australia and New Zealand stay longer and spend more than other international visitors, meaning an increase in their numbers could significantly benefit Cumbria's visitor economy. The Australia Travel..

. Erin Gaskell.