SCHOOL PUTS IPSWICH ON TOURISM MAP

The Ipswich-based University of Queensland’s School of Tourism took out top honours in the Tourism Education and Training category at Friday night’s 2006 Queensland Tourism Awards.

Tourism Minister Margaret Keech said three Ipswich region tourism operators were also honoured as finalists in four categories.

“The Tourism Education and Training category – so important for the future of our industry – was won by the University of Queensland’s School of Tourism for their contribution to the growth and talent in tourism,” Mrs Keech said.

“The WorkshopsRailMuseum was a finalist in both the Significant Tourist Attraction category and the Heritage and Cultural Tourism Category.

“Wiss House Bed and Breakfast at Kalbar was a finalist in the Hosted Accommodation category and Peppers Hiddenvale was a finalist in the Deluxe Accommodation category.

“Scenic Rim View Cottages near Warrill View received a Cutting Edge Directions’ Award in the same category for the high standard of its nomination.”

Around 1,200 tourism leaders and representatives attended the gala awards ceremony to celebrate and commemorate excellence in the industry, held this year at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

“The Queensland Tourism Awards recognise the best of the best and it was inspiring to see so many worthy entrants and so many delighted and enthusiastic winners and finalists in a diverse range of categories,” Mrs Keech said.

Mrs Keech paid tribute to the organisers of the event – Tourism Queensland and the Queensland Tourism Industry Council – as well as the 13-member Judging Panel and the sponsors for ensuring the gala evening was a huge success.

“This is the 10^th year that QR’s Traveltrain Holidays has provided its support and

backing to the awards and we were delighted that they joined as our principal partner this year,” she said.

“All state winners now progress to the Australian Tourism Awards on 23 February 2007.

“There they will fly the Queensland flag and hopefully continue our proud record at the national level and showcase Queensland as the number one destination of choice.”

For further information, visit www.queenslandtourismawards.com.au.

Media contacts: David Smith 3225 1005 / 0409 496 534 or Louise Yates 3535 5349 / 0419 713 176 (Tourism Queensland)