Sunshine Coast hinterland tourism operators have been recognised among Queensland’s best, collecting five gold awards and one silver at the 41st Queensland Tourism Awards.
The awards, held on the Gold Coast on November 7, recognised outstanding operators across 29 categories, covering accommodation, attractions, events, tours and food tourism.
Among the local winners were Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, which took gold for Hosted Accommodation, Alsahwa Estate for New Tourism Business and Maleny Cheese for Excellence in Food Tourism.
The Abbey Medieval Festival collected two gold awards, for Accessible Tourism and Festivals and Events, while Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World received silver in the Tourist Attractions category.
Member for Glass House Andrew Powell said the awards were a proud moment for the region.
“When people talk about the best tourism experiences in Queensland, businesses like Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat, Alsahwa, Maleny Cheese, the Abbey Medieval Festival and the Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World show exactly why our region deserves to be part of that conversation,” Mr Powell said.
“Locals have long known how special these businesses are and it's great to see that recognised on the Queensland stage.”
Mr Powell said the success reflected the dedication of local tourism operators and their staff.
“Queensland tourism is going from strength to strength, and that's a credit to the operators, businesses and workers who deliver world-class experiences every day,” he said.
Queensland Tourism Industry Council CEO Natassia Wheeler said the winners had earned their place among the best tourism businesses in Australia.
“These businesses have earned their place among the best in the country. They have looked hard at every part of their operation, invested in their people and lifted the experience for every visitor who walks through their door,” Ms Wheeler said.
Gold medal winners will now have the opportunity to represent Queensland at the Australian Tourism Awards in categories with a national equivalent.
The Queensland Tourism Awards are delivered by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council, with support from the State Government and Tourism and Events Queensland.
• For the full list of winners, visit www.qtic.com.au/queensland-tourism-awards/.
