Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary among recipients of Queensland Tourism Awards

Last night’s Queensland Tourism Awards 2022 saw Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary secure the gold award for Major Tourism Attraction alongside industry leader Paul Donovon who was recognised for his contribution to the tourism industry.

More than 1,000 tourism operators and individuals attended the awards held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre.

Queensland’s tourism industry was championed with a total of 78 awards, including 31 Gold, 26 Silver and 20 Bronze Awards presented across 30 categories.

Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Chief Executive Brett Fraser said the 37th annual Queensland Tourism Awards had brought together an outstanding selection of operators that truly reflect the diverse range of the state’s quality tourism offerings.

Queensland Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said the Queensland Tourism Awards had capped off a remarkable year for domestic tourism and noted “Domestic tourism in Queensland has bounced back strongly this year with a record $19.6 billion in overnight visitor spending.

“This nation leading result that owes much to the hard work and resilience of Queensland’s tourism operators.

“Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary’s gold for Major Tourism Attraction is a terrific example of a much-loved experience that’s upgraded and adapted over the years to meet the changing visitor expectations.

“The Awards rightfully recognise former Destination Gold Coast Chairman Paul Donovon for his tireless work in steering the Gold Coast tourism to success. 

“Paul Donovon is a deserving recipient of the Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual.”

Among the accolades presented was a new Hall of Fame winner, two RACQ People’s Choice Awards and in its inaugural year, a Judges Choice Award.

The spotlight was on outback Queensland this year with eight rural operators taking out awards, as well as the Southern Great Barrier Reef region receiving an impressive 12 awards.

A hero in its category which recognises ecologically sustainable tourism, Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort received The Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism, placing it in the Queensland Tourism Awards Hall of Fame – a prestigious accolade presented to entrants that have won in their selected Queensland Tourism Awards category for three consecutive years.

28 of Queensland’s best progress to the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in March 2023 to be judged against finalists from each State and Territory.

Click here for full list of Queensland Tourism Awards recipients

Image. Credit: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary