Farm Stays To Festivals Win State Tourism Awards 

The Mackay Isaac region was celebrated in full force at the Queensland Tourism Awards last Friday night, with local operators, businesses, and events gaining state-wide recognition for their commitment to excellence in tourism. 

Mackay Isaac Tourism's CEO, Jeff Stewart-Harris, said he was proud to witness the Mackay Isaac region shine at the prestigious black-tie event.
 
“I had the privilege of attending the Queensland Tourism Awards on Friday night alongside some of our local operators, businesses, and stakeholders, and it was fantastic to see our region represented,” said Mr. Stewart-Harris.
 
“It’s a real testament to the exceptional talent and hard work of our local tourism community here in the Mackay Isaac region.”

Award Placements:
Oh Deere Farm Stay, Bronze in Unique Accommodation
Between the Tides (Queensland Music Festivals), Silver in Cultural Tourism
Windmill Motel and Events Centre, Bronze in Business Events Venues
St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend (Isaac Regional Council), Bronze in Festivals and Events
 
In the crowd amongst over 1,000 attendees were owners of Oh Deere Farm Stay Karinda and Dale Anderson who were just ecstatic at the achievement.
 
“Receiving Bronze is an incredible honour and a reflection of our dedication to providing visitors with a genuine, memorable farm stay experience”, said Mrs Anderson.
 
“This award highlights our commitment to sustainable tourism and authentic storytelling, and we’re thrilled to share this success with our team and community.
 
“We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to the Mackay Isaac region into the future”.
 
Property Manager of the Windmill Motel & Events Centre Leanne Green said they are incredibly honoured to be acknowledged at the Queensland Tourism Awards.
 
“This recognition is a testament to the hard work and passion of our team, who strive every day to provide exceptional experiences for our guests.” 
 
Isaac Regional Council Mayor Kelly Vea Vea said the recognition for St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend highlights the strong relationships between community and council to promoting a sustainable tourism event.
 
“Winning the Bronze at the Queensland Tourism Awards is a testament to the hardworking volunteers, our valued partners and the entire Isaac team.
 
“Their commitment has brought to life an event that immerses visitors in the natural beauty and cultural richness of the St Lawrence Wetlands,” Mayor Vea Vea said.
 
CEQ of Queensland Music Festivals Daryl Raven was humbled by the announcement at the Queensland Tourism Awards. 

“We would like to especially thank the Yuwi people, the traditional custodians of the region, for sharing their stories and heritage, which were central to this project,” Mr Raven said.
 
“I’d also like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mayor Greg Williamson for his continued support and commitment to fostering a thriving tourism landscape in Mackay.”
  
As the region celebrates this achievement, it looks forward to building on this momentum and showcasing even more of what makes Mackay Isaac unforgettable in the years to come.

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Dale and Karinda Anderson from Oh Deere Farm Stay won a bronze award in the Unique Accommodation category at the Queensland Tourism Awards. Photo credit: Oh Deere Farm Stay

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