City one of many TV destinations

The State Government has defended itself against claims it played favourites in getting the crew of Chinese reality show Viva La Romance to film in the Premier’s Rockingham electorate.

In Parliament last month, shadow tourism minister Libby Mettam questioned Tourism Minister Paul Papalia about why Tourism WA “selected” Rockingham as one of the filming locations.

He denied it was a decision of Tourism WA, but said that they would have supported the filming activity.

Tourism WA said they did suggest a number of destinations to the film crew, including Rockingham.

Other locations suggested included Perth city, Rottnest Island, Mandurah and the Busselton-Margaret River region — which sits in Ms Mettam’s Vasse electorate.

“Tourism WA co-ordinated with tour operators and the production company to assist with the filming of Viva La Romance,” a spokeswoman said.

“Tourism WA worked with travel operators and inbound tour operators around Australia to promote the destinations that appeared in each of the episodes at time of airing.

“All of these destinations were suggested to align with the Chinese market’s strong interest in immersive, hands-on nature and wildlife activities.”