Original Article: https://blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/come-and-say-gday/

Have you ever wanted to visit Australia? You’re not alone. “The Land Down Under” has much to offer in the way of sights and sounds. Now, the cutest little CGI kangaroo named Ruby wants to convince you to go. Featured prominently in a tourism short promoting the beauty and diversity of Australia, the newly released ad is more along the lines of a sweet children’s adventure film starring the spunky souvenir ‘roo and her new magical friend Louie, who just happens to be a unicorn. Voiced by actors Rose Byrne and Will Arnett, it’s must-see viewing.

Animated Shorts

It can be tough to come up with original ideas to convince the masses to come and visit. Since the pandemic started, tourism and travel were pretty much off the table. But as more and more cities open back up, it’s the perfect time to release ads reminding people why they should jet off to new and old destinations alike. Since Queen Elizabeth’s Platinum Jubilee, with its wildly popular Paddington Bear short, it may have planted the seed for Come and Say D’day. Whatever the influence or reasoning, it’s a hit in its own right.

Australia

Said to be the country’s first global advertising campaign for tourism since 2016, it follows on the heels of Australia’s lengthy border shutdown due to Covid-19. Created by M&C Saatchi Sydney, the nine-minute film was directed by Michael Gracey. Tourism Australia’s chief marketing officer, Susan Coghill, described their newest brand ambassador as both “a joyful way to showcase the warm and welcoming nature of Australia, and to instantly connect with international audiences.” Coghill added, “The use of an animated character, such as Ruby, was a deliberate move that aims to cut through the clutter of destination marketing internationally. Ruby is a versatile, fluent brand device that can live across all platforms and channels.”

Ruby to the Rescue

Cutting through all of the ad speak, what it boils down to for the rest of us is that heartwarming Ruby is an adorable and very welcome distraction. Released October 19, it’s already been viewed nearly 1 million times and counting. Opening with the Great Barrier Reef, you can check out “the ‘roo and the Lou” below to see for yourself. Who knows. It may even prompt you to book a ticket to The Land Down Under — and not for its vegemite sandwiches.

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Source: The Animal Rescue Site Blog