The best tourism businesses named at NSW Tourism Awards

The best tourism operators in NSW were recognised in a stunning gala event last night at the 2012 NSW Tourism Awards. Spanning 31 categories, the winners were judged from hundreds of entries received from around the state who represent festivals and events, accommodation, adventure tourism and indigenous tourism.

This year also saw the launch of a new category - Local Government Award for Tourism – which recognises the major contribution of Local Councils and Shires across NSW.

In its 23^rd year, the NSW Tourism Awards managed by the Tourism Industry Council of NSW supports the development of the tourism industry; a sector that accounts for one in every 22 jobs in NSW and contributes $20.2 billion per year to the NSW economy.

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, George Souris, congratulated the winners and praised the innovation and dedication of the industry.

“It was my honour to be present at the 2012 NSW Tourism Awards and to celebrate the hard work of the individuals and organisations who strive for excellence in this most important industry.

“The NSW Tourism Awards is an important opportunity to recognise the achievements of the industry and those who strive for success and the shared common goal of ensuring NSW is the number one visitor destination in Australia,” said Minister Souris.

Ken Corbett, chairman of Tourism Industry Council of NSW, has been involved in the tourism awards for four years and never ceases to be amazed by the consistent improvement of the quality of entrant’s year on year.

“These winners are a strong reminder of the depth and quality of tourism product that exists within our State.

“I look forward to seeing our New South Wales winners continue their success at the Australian Tourism Awards in Hobart in February 2013,” said Mr Corbett.

The Port Macquarie Hastings Council won the very first Local Government Award for Tourism.

Philip Hele, gregarious owner of the Hunter Resort, was recognised for his Outstanding Contribution to Tourism by an Individual and Jenny-Lee Stefas, Tourism Manager for the Sutherland Shire Council, was awarded for her Outstanding Contribution to Regional Tourism.

The Young Achiever in Tourism Award was presented to Belinda Stapleton, Managing Director at Spicers Vineyards Estate.

The 2012 NSW Tourism Awards were announced at Le Montage, in Lilyfield – Sydney, in front of 700 people. All NSW Tourism Award winners will automatically become finalists in the National Tourism Awards.

The Full List of Winners:

Source: Tourism Industry Council NSW, 23 November 2012