Industry reunites for presentation of Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

Excellence in the tourism industry has been recognised with the presentation of the 2021 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards on the Sunshine Coast this evening.

Celebrating the industry’s resilience and strength during the incredible challenges the industry has faced over the past two years, 75 awards - gold, silver and bronze - were presented across 25 categories.

Commenting on the night, Daniel Gschwind, Chair of the Australian Tourism Awards, said that it is testament to the commitment of Australian tourism operators who continue to deliver excellent experiences with sheer passion and commitment throughout the challenges.

Gschwind stated "the businesses that are here tonight have led the way in reimagining their products so they can continue to provide quality visitor experiences throughout the pandemic. With our open borders and international tourism resuming, tonight is a timely reminder of the vast range of exceptional tourism products and services available and to focus on a strong tourism future for Australia.”

Among the winners, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria took home gold for Major Tourist Attraction, as did Saffire Freycinet in 5 Star Luxury Accommodation and Freemantle Prison for Cultural Tourism.

Other winners include Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks for Caravan and Holiday Parks, Beach Huts Middleton for 3-3.5 Star Accommodation, Darwin Convention Centre for Business Event venues and Red Cat Adventures for Adventure Tourism.

The presentation also saw the Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience inducted into the Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for taking the top honours in Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries for the past three years.

Supported by the Queensland Government, the 2021 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards were held at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Convention Centre.

... more to follow.

Image: Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria representatives with their gold award for Major Tourist Attraction.