Queensland’s $25 billion tourism industry recognised its most outstanding, dedicated and successful operators at the 2017 Queensland Tourism Awards, where the Southern Great Barrier Reef took out multiple accolades including three Golds.
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort, set the benchmark for ecotourism around the state taking out the prestigious Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism, recognising ecologically sustainable tourism with a primary focus on experiencing natural areas that foster environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation.
The Waterline Restaurant won the Gold for Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services, recognising their commitment to offering a tourism experience and/or servicing the tourism industry.
Empire Rockhampton took out Gold for Business Event Venues, setting the standard for venues who provide high quality facilities specifically designed for business events eg meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions.
The awards just kept coming for SGBR operators, with Empire Rockhampton also securing Silver in Deluxe Accommodation.
Family operated Kellys Beach Resort receiving a Silver Award in the Standard Accommodation category.
Bundaberg Rum Distillery received a Bronze Award in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries category.
Also receiving recognition with a Bronze award in the Cultural Tourism category, was Bundaberg’s own, Hinkler Hall of Aviation.
This year’s awards attracted more than 160 nominations from across the state.
The Queensland Tourism Awards is hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council and presented by Queensland Airports Limited in partnership with Tourism and Events Queensland and supporting partner Tourism Australia.
The annual awards are judged by a panel of industry experts who volunteer their time to assess written submissions and travel throughout Queensland to experience the amenities and services of nominated businesses.
