The nation’s tourism industry gathered tonight for the announcement of the winners and placegetters of the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
Over 180 leading tourism operators competed for top honours across the 26 categories announced at the industry’s premier event, held at the Darwin Convention Centre.
“The Australian Tourism Awards are the tourism industry’s most prestigious awards which showcase innovation and business excellence,” said Dr Naomi Dale, Chief Executive Officer, Canberra Region Tourism Industry Council.
“There was an exceptional level of competition across all categories which demonstrates the dedication tourism operators have to developing extraordinary visitor experiences,” she said.
The Canberra Region showcased excellence in tourism, with seven of our ten national finalists being awarded top three places on the night. “It is a testament to the rigorous business development we provide our entrants to help them get across the line supported by the Quality Tourism Framework national benchmarking,” said Dr Dale.
Mixing it with the best, our entrants winning Gold were Lights on the Lake (National Capital Authority) for Events and Festivals, the Canberra & Region Visitors Centre (VisitCanberra) for Visitor Information Services and the Royal Australian Mint for Cultural Tourism.
Taking Silver were The Museum Shop at the National Museum of Australia for Tourism, Retail and Hire Services, Alivio Tourist Park for Caravan and Holiday Parks and Jamala Wildlife Lodge for Unique Accommodation.
Bronze was awarded to the National Arboretum in the category of Ecotourism.
“Huge congratulations go to all our Canberra Region finalists on their exceptional achievements which have been recognised and celebrated tonight. It is great to celebrate excellence and acknowledge some of the Canberra Region’s most outstanding tourism experiences. We have truly proven we can achieve amazing things when measuring tourism excellence amongst the best from all states and territories” says Dr Dale.
Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism said “Tourism businesses and their staff are the backbone of our vibrant tourism industry, delivering world class experiences to visitors from across Australia and around the world. The bright future of the sector couldn’t be in better hands.”
We thank the ACT Government and VisitCanberra for their ongoing support of the Canberra Region local program.
The national awards were supported by returning naming rights sponsor, Qantas, as well as Platinum Sponsor, Tourism Australia, and Host Partners, the Northern Territory Government and Tourism NT. The awards were also supported by numerous Partners and Sponsors including GetAboutAble, the Big Red Group, Darwin Convention Centre, the Airport Development Group and Signature Media.
For more information on the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, visit http://www.qualitytourismaustralia.com/australian-tourism-awards
The list of Canberra Region winners is listed below. Images and interviews with award recipients can be arranged.
MEDIA CONTACT: For more information, interviews or images, please contact Debra Beetham, on 0402 912 294 or debra@nationalattractions.com.au