Tourism Export Industry Awards announced at ATEC’s annual Gala Dinner

Perth’s Crown Towers was host to Australia’s export tourism industry this past week, where outstanding contributors to the industry were recognised at the annual Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) Excellence Awards.

The awards recognise the most outstanding contribution of an individual, young achiever of the year and other outstanding industry commitment, with this year’s Captain Trevor Haworth Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to the Tourism Export Industry won by Tony Liu of Jade Express.

Announcing the Award, ATEC Chairman, Denis Pierce stated “Tony has been a trailblazer for inbound Asian tourism and a passionate ATEC advocate for several decades including as one of the founding members of ATEC’s Asian Tourism Advisory Panel.

“He has shown amazing leadership in shaping Australia’s success in securing markets from Asia and is greatly respected throughout the tourism industry.”

The Len Taylor Young ATEC Award for Leadership for 2017 was awarded to Sarah Dudek from WA’s Seashells Hospitality Group, a graduate of ATEC’s ELITE Program.

Commenting on the Award, Pierce advised “Sarah is passionate about the tourism industry and she has been instrumental in revitalising WA’s Young ATEC network since she took over the role of chair in 2015 - leading the organisation of mentoring events for Young ATEC members in WA with enthusiasm and passion.

“Sarah is a fantastic example of leadership in our sector and a valuable asset to the industry.”

This year’s Outstanding Contribution by an Individual to ATEC was awarded to the Wayne Thompson from Australian Transit Group who has three decades of industry involvement. 

Current chair of ATEC’s Northern Territory Branch, Thompson Wayne has been closely involved with the association since 2005.

Pierce added “Wayne is not only a staunch advocate for ATEC, providing mentorship and support to many members in the Territory, he is also an active and passionate promoter of the NT at national and international marketing events.

“As chair of ATEC’s NT branch, Wayne is seen as a central to maintaining a strong link between the Association and the local industry, dedicating time to his role as Chair to get the best outcomes for his peers and ATEC as well.”

ATEC’s Branch of the Year was awarded to the Victoria/Tasmania branch, with Pierce concluding “I congratulate all the winners for their outstanding contribution to our vibrant industry.”

Image shows award winners and dignitaries at the ATEC Excellence Awards (from left): Denis Pierce, Federal Tourism Minister Steve Ciobo, Anthony Haworth, Tony Liu, Julian Barry and Michael Smith.

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