The Whitsundays has once again demonstrated its status as a premier tourist destination, taking home 16 awards at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards. Among the night’s highlights, Elizabeth Hackett was honoured with the prestigious Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual. Her vision, leadership, and dedication have transformed businesses across the region, elevating The Whitsundays’ tourism sector to new heights.
Hosted at The Star, Queens Wharf, in Brisbane on Friday, 15th November, the awards recognised the outstanding achievements of tourism operators across Queensland and reaffirmed The Whitsundays’ position at the forefront of the state's tourism industry. The Whitsundays region was well represented, with a number of local operators nominated across various categories, including accommodation, tours, transport, and unique experiences.
Tim Booth, CEO, Tourism Whitsundays commended the region’s strong representation, praising the passion, resilience, and innovation shown by local tourism operators.
“The Whitsundays remains one of the world’s most sought-after destinations, and these awards are a testament to the dedication and passion of our tourism operators. A heartfelt congratulations to each and every entrant — your hard work and commitment to excellence is what makes our region so special.
“The fact that we are seeing success despite ongoing global challenges is a credit to the resilience and innovation of our industry. We are incredibly proud of all those who make up our thriving tourism sector, and we’re excited for what lies ahead as we continue to build on our reputation as a leading tourism destination.”
Whitsunday Regional Council Mayor Ry Collins expressed immense pride in the region’s accolades at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Awards.
“Tourism is the heartbeat of the Whitsundays, and these awards are a testament to the resilience and passion of our tourism operators.
“To ensure the Whitsundays continues to shine as a world-class destination Council has a strong focus on collaborating with Tourism Whitsundays and local tourism operators to foster a vibrant and sustainable tourism industry for our region,” he said.
2024 Whitsundays Winners Gold Awards
• Ocean Rafting (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
• BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Caravan and Holiday Parks)
• Pinnacles, Airlie Beach (Self-Contained Accommodation)
• BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (Excellence in Accessible Tourism)
Silver Awards
• Shute Harbour Marine Terminal (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
• Red Cat Adventures (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
• Iconic Whitsunday (Tour and Transport Operators)
• Cruise Whitsundays (Unique accommodation)
• Camp Island Lodge (Self-Contained Accommodation)
• Airlie Beach Cruise Ship Ambassadors (Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group)
Bronze Awards
• Whitsunday Coast Airport (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
• Bowen Visitor Information Centre (Visitor Information Services)
• Ocean Rafting (Adventure Tourism)
• The Boathouse Apartments (4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation)
• InterContinental Hayman Island Resort (5 Star Luxury Accommodation)
• Eastwoods Dining (New Tourism Business)
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