161 operators compete for top honours in 2009 Queensland Tourism Awards
Posted by editor (editor) on Oct 13 2009
2009 >>

161 tourism operators from across the state are vying for top honours in the 2009 Queensland Tourism Awards Tourism Minister Peter Lawlor said today.

Mr Lawlor said the 2009 Queensland Tourism Awards, presented by Queensland Airports Ltd, would be held on Friday November 13 at Conrad Jupiters on the Gold Coast.

“These tourism operators have submitted 216 entries in the awards this year, with many operators vying for more than one category,” Mr Lawlor said.

“The Queensland Tourism Awards recognise and reward excellence, innovation and success in our industry, while reinforcing the value of tourism to Queensland’s regions.

“Entries have been received from across the state, pointing to Queensland’s strength and diversity as a world-class tourism destination.

“From major tourist attractions and small B&Bs to luxury retreats, quirky regional festivals and indigenous tours, the awards celebrate Queensland’s incredible range of tourism experiences and encourage new product and even higher standards.”

Mr Lawlor said Tropical North Queensland had the highest number of operators entering this year with 31, followed by Brisbane with 30, the Gold Coast and Whitsundays with 20 each, 15 each from the Sunshine Coast and Townsville, and nine from Queensland’s Outback.

“Queensland’s tourism regions are well-represented across a range of categories as operators take advantage of our natural, cultural and historical attractions with some unique products and events,” he said.

Mr Lawlor said total visitor expenditure in Queensland was $18.6 billion in the year ending June 2009.

“There is no doubt the state’s tourism industry has had a challenging year and the State Government and Tourism Queensland are committed to protecting the jobs of the 119,000 Queenslanders who are directly employed in tourism businesses plus the additional 97,000 who indirectly owe their living to tourism,” he said.

“Encouraging and promoting success and innovation is crucial if Queensland is to continue to maintain its status as a global tourism leader.”

Mr Lawlor congratulated the entrants for taking the time to nominate and wished them luck.

He also thanked the awards’ platinum sponsor - Queensland Airports Limited - and awards organisers Tourism Queensland and the Queensland Tourism Industry Council.

“I encourage Queensland’s tourism industry, whether you have entered or not, to support your friends and colleagues and come along to what is the tourism ‘Oscars’,” he said.

For more information, including purchasing tickets, visit www.queenslandtourismawards.com.au

Ends 

*A full list of this year's nominees available on request. 

Further information:
Minister’s Office – ph 3225 1005
Tourism Queensland – ph 3535 5010

Last changed: Oct 13 2009 at 9:27 AM