Queensland outback tourism operators shine

Tourism operators across the Outback have been recognised by their peers at the annual Outback Tourism Awards, held last night (Saturday 16th November) in Mt Isa, with Qantas Founders Museum in Longreach receiving the Major Tourist Attractions award and the Outback at Isa mining attraction winning in two categories.

The Xstrata Rotary Mount Isa Rodeo won in the Festivals and Events category while Winton Shire Council won the Local Goverment Award.

Queensland Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Small Business and the Commonwealth Games Jann Stuckey was on hand to congratulate the 2013 award winners, who have played an important role in growing the region's tourism industry.

Minister Stuckey explained "these awards recognise the very best of our industry and last night's winners should be proud of their achievements.

"Operators from across the Outback came in their droves as a record turnout celebrated an outstanding year, with their peers."

The Minister noted the high standard of tourism operators within the Outback region, particularly Kinnon and Co, Darymple Van Park and the Birdsville Hotel which were inducted into the Hall of Fame.

She added "these operators exemplify the good work being done across this state to boost the experiences of visitors."

Outback Tourism Award Winners 2013

Major Tourist Attractions - Qantas Founders Museum

Tourist Attractions Outback - Aussie Tours, MV Explorer, Drovers Sunset

Major Festivals and Events - Birdsville Races

Festivals and Events - Xstrata Rotary Mount Isa Rodeo

Heritage and Cultural Tourism - Outback at Isa

Visitor Information and Services - Outback at Isa

Tour and/or Transport Operator - Kinnon and Co

Tourism Marketing - Overlanders Way

Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services - Qantas Founders Museum

Hosted Accommodation - Adels Grove

Local Government Award for Tourism - Winton Shire Council

New Tourism Development ¬ Kinnon and Co: Starlight Spectacular

Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group - Nola Halloran

Young Achiever's Award - Amanda Finley

Vince Evert Award for Outstanding Contribution to Outback Tourism - Margie Ryder

Hall of Fame Award for Heritage and Cultural Tourism - Kinnon and Co

Hall of Fame Award for Hosted Accommodation - Dalrymple Tourist Van Park

Hall of Fame Award for Best Outback Queensland Pub - Birdsville Hotel

Hall of Fame Award for Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services - Birdsville Hotel

31st October 2013 - QUEENSLAND EVENTS CONFERENCE PRESENTS LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES

23rd March 2013 - AUSTRALIANS ENCOURAGED TO TAKE AN OUTBACK ‘EVENTURE’

28th May 2012 - BACKING FOR CREATIVE FESTIVALS IN REGIONAL AUSTRALIA

10th November 2009 - DINOSAUR TRAIL FOR QUEENSLAND OUTBACK