Outback operators secure nine awards at 2021 QTIC Queensland Tourism Awards

Tourism operators from outback Queensland have secured nine awards, including golds in three categories at the 2021 Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) Tourism Awards.

Presented yesterday evening at a Black Tie Gala Ceremony, also streamed on Facebook, outback Queensland had 22 nominees in the running in the Awards thanks to their role in regenerating the Queensland tourism economy throughout the pandemic and providing excellent tourism offerings.

With locals flocking to Outback Queensland this year, 2021 has been the region’s most successful tourism year to date.

Advising that it is now rallying to keep up the momentum into 2022 with international boarders opening, encouraging Australians to continue to explore their own backyards, Outback Queensland Tourism Association Chair, Andrew Martin stated “with borders slammed shut for the better part of two years, Queenslanders flocked to Outback Queensland to enjoy the incredible diversity of experiences that the outback has on offer.

“It has been Outback Queensland’s best year yet, particularly due to strong investment and new infrastructure in the region pre pandemic, which meant travellers could also experience new and reinvigorated attractions such as the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame, and Eromanga Natural History Museum.

“Boasting experiences on offer for everyone, families and young couples included, Queenslanders began to explore more of their backyard and iconic world-class attractions such as Cooper, Australia’s largest skeletal replica dinosaur which made international headlines this year.

“With borders set to reopen as we near Christmas, we are calling on Aussies to continue to hit the roads and adventure to Outback Queensland. Let’s continue to explore our own backyard, support local, breathe in fresh outback air, and enjoy our region’s country hospitality - because we love having you there and you’ll love being there.”

Outback Queensland winners at the QTIC Queensland Tourism Awards:

• Winner (Gold): New Tourism Business - Mitchell Grass Retreat

• Winner (Gold): Caravan & Holiday Parks - Julia Creek Caravan Park

• Winner (Gold): Visitor Information Services - Longreach Visitor Information

• (Silver): 3-3.5 Star Accommodation - ibis Styles Mount Isa

• (Silver): Visitor Information Centre: Balonne Shire Council

• (Silver): Major Tourist Attraction - Australian Age of Dinosaurs & Museum of Natural History

• (Bronze): Cultural Tourism - Qantas Founders Museum

• (Bronze): Major Tourist Attraction - Qantas Founders Museum

• (Bronze): Festivals and Events - Big Red Bash

Images: QTIC Gold award winner Mitchell Grass Retreat (top) and double award winner the Qantas Founders Museum (below). Credit: Tourism and Events Queensland.