MEDIA STATEMENT: Queensland takes centre stage at Australian Tourism Awards

Published Saturday, 22 March, 2025 at 09:24 AM

Minister for the Environment and Tourism and Minister for Science and Innovation
The Honourable Andrew Powell

Queensland takes centre stage at Australian Tourism Awards 

  • Queensland tourism operators make a splash at the Australian Tourism Awards.
  • Queensland clinching six gold, three silver, and three bronze awards, in one of the State’s best ever hauls.
  • The Sunshine State very much open for business after wild weather this year. 

Queensland has taken centre stage at this year's Australian Tourism Awards, claiming one of its best ever hauls at the coveted event. 

Sunshine State tourism operators walked away with six gold, three silver, and three bronze awards, once again reiterating Queensland’s home to some of the best visitor experiences in the world. 

The awards include best luxury offering for an ecotourism retreat, best unique dining experience and best Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander experience. 

Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the results were a testament to the dedication, innovation, and resilience of the State’s tourism sector. 

“A huge congratulations to our tourism operators who showcase the best of what Queensland has to offer,” Minister Powell said. 

“While it’s been a challenging time due to recent weather events, Queensland is very much open for business and ready for tourists to visit once more. 

“Tourism is not just a holiday, it’s a vital part of our economy, with the industry employing one in 12 Queenslanders and contributing $95 million every day. 

“Our Government is determined to restore Queensland to the number one destination in Australia.” 

ENDS 

MEDIA CONTACT: Fiona Crawford 0417 700 363 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: 

Queensland’s Australian Tourism Awards 2025 winners:

Gold award winners  

Festivals & Events 

Birdsville Big Red Bash 

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences 

Cape York Peninsula Lodge 

Tour & Transport Operators 

Fun Over 50 Holidays - Immersive Tours and Adventures 

Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services 

Sea World Cruises Dining Experiences  

Caravan & Holiday Parks  

HALL OF FAME INDUCTEE 

BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort  

5 Star Luxury Accommodation 

The Reef House Adults Retreat 

 

Silver award winners 

Major Festivals & Events 

Beef Australia 2024 

Visitor Information Services 

Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery 

Self Contained Accommodation 

Pinnacles, Airlie Beach 

 

 

Bronze award winners 

Major Tour & Transport Operators 

Ocean Rafting 

Adventure Tourism 

Aquascene Magnetic Island 

4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation 

Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort