Tasmania’s National Tourism Award Winners Congratulated

27 February 2009

Tourism Minister Michelle O’Byrne said tonight she was delighted by the success of Tasmanian companies at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Melbourne.

Ms. O’Byrne congratulated “The Maria Island Walk” for winning the Adventure Tourism Category and “The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel” for winning the Deluxe Accommodation category.

“It is the innovative approach of Ian and Bronwyn Johnstone, owner / operators of The Maria Island Walk that is the key to their success which also saw them in the running for the Ecotourism Award.

“Last year The Maria Island Walk, also won the Palm Micro-business Award at the Telstra Tasmanian Business of the Year Awards.

“These achievements are appropriate recognition of the leadership, energy and principles demonstrated by the Johnstones and their team, whose aim it is to provide a rich experience of history and nature while their guests undertake gentle, achievable adventure.”

“The win by The Old Woolstore Apartment Hotel in the Deluxe Accommodation category is a tribute to their passion for excellence.

“That striving to be the best was also recognised last year with the hotel taking out not only the Deluxe Accommodation category at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards, but also the Meetings and Business Tourism Category, and three AHA Tasmanian Awards for Excellence,”

“This most recent award is another credit to the business, which was described in a recent review in Australian Traveller as warm, comfortable and stylish.”

Ms O’Byrne said the Australian Tourism Awards were a very tangible expression of business excellence, innovation and commitment to the tourism industry.

“For two Tasmanian businesses to be honoured in this arena of excellence is significant,” she said.

“I would also like to congratulate The Wilderness Gallery for their Honourable Mention in the category of Specialised Tourism Services.”

The Tasmanian Tourism Awards were held in November 2008, with a total of 16 Tasmanian award winning attractions, properties and events progressing through to the national awards.

“Our Tasmanian tourism operators do us proud by showcasing the State’s excellence in tourism and delivering on the promise we make to our visitors of providing them with unforgettable and engaging holiday experiences.

“By delivering these quality experiences and through their commitment to excellence, they give visitors a reason to travel here – and a reason to keep coming back.

“The State Government is committed to supporting and fostering excellence in tourism in this State and we will continue to work in partnership with our industry, to ensure that Tasmania remains a must-visit holiday destination.”

Further information: Sue Bailey 0417 550 279