Queensland attractions awarded tourism gold
21 March 2025
- The nation’s best of the best in the tourism industry gathered on Friday 21 March in Adelaide for the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
- The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are the biggest annual celebration of tourism business excellence in Australia.
- Out of the 26 award categories, Queensland operators have taken out six gold, three silver, and three bronze.
- BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort were inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame after securing gold for three consecutive years in the Caravan and Holiday Parks award.
Tonight, the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards celebrated 40 years of excellence and recognised the nation’s best tourism businesses, showcasing the dedication to quality and innovation that defines Australian tourism.
Held at the Adelaide Convention Centre in South Australia, this year’s awards not only honoured achievements across 26 categories but also served as a moment of reflection on the vibrant four decades-long history of the Australian Tourism Awards.
With 24 Queensland tourism operators up for top honours, the sunshine state celebrated a remarkable night by accepting 12 accolades with six gold, three silver, and three bronze.
Among the night’s gold winners, BIG4 Adventure Whitsundays Resort were inducted into the prestigious Hall of Fame after securing gold for three consecutive years in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.
Birdsville Big Red Bash were triumphant in the highly coveted Festivals and Events category, taking home gold.
The illustrious 5 Star Luxury Accommodation award was presented to North Queensland’s iconic The Reef House Adults Retreat while the Gold Coast’s Sea World Cruises Dining Experiences took the title for best in Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services.
Cape York Peninsula Lodge was awarded gold for the prestigious Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences award.
Six other Queensland attractions from Townsville to Quilpie took to the podium with silver or bronze, including Beef Australia 2024 who were crowned Australia’s second-best Major Festival and Events.
The success of this year’s awards was made possible by the invaluable support of event sponsors and partners, whose commitment continues elevates excellence in tourism. These include Naming Rights Sponsor Qantas, Platinum Sponsor Tourism Australia, Host Partner the South Australian Tourism Commission, Gold Sponsors Big Red Group and Adelaide Airport, Venue Partner Adelaide Convention Centre, and Accessible Consultant GetAboutAble.
For more information on the awards, visit www.australiantourismawards.com.au.
FULL LIST OF QUEENSLAND WINNERS
The following is the complete list of categories and Queensland winners at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
GOLD
- Birdsville Big Red Bash – Festivals & Events
- Cape York Peninsula Lodge – Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences
- Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures – Tour & Transport Operators
- Sea World Cruises Dining Experiences – Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services
- BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort – Caravan & Holiday Parks Hall of Fame inductee
- The Reef House Adults Retreat – 5 Star Luxury Accommodation
SILVER
- Beef Australia 2024 – Major Festivals & Events
- Quilpie Visitor Information Centre, Museum & Gallery – Visitor Information Services
- Pinnacles, Airlie Beach – Self Contained Accommodation
BRONZE
- Ocean Rafting – Major Tour & Transport Operators
- Aquascene Magnetic Island – Adventure Tourism
- Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort – 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation
Quotes attributable to Natasia Wheeler, CEO of Queensland Tourism Industry Council:
“Queensland’s success at the Australian Tourism Awards reinforces the vital role our industry plays in the national economy. Tourism is Queensland’s second-largest export and a powerhouse for jobs, supporting communities across the state. Our winners exemplify the innovation, resilience, and world-class experiences that keep visitors coming back.
“This year’s award winners hail from all corners of Queensland, from the Outback to the coast, showcasing the incredible diversity and strength of our tourism industry. Congratulations to all our winners and finalists – your passion and dedication continue to set Queensland apart as Australia’s leading tourism destination.
“A special congratulations to Birdsville and the team behind the Big Red Bash. Staging the world’s most remote music festival and turning it into one of Australia’s most iconic events is an extraordinary achievement.
“Events like the Big Red Bash are powerful tourism drawcards, bringing visitors to some of the most unique and remote corners of Queensland, delivering huge economic benefits to local communities and showcasing the magic of Outback Queensland to the world. This recognition is a testament to the passion and determination of the organisers and the strength of our regional tourism industry.”
Quotes attributable to Senator the Hon Don Farrell, Minister for Trade and Tourism of Australia:
“My sincere congratulations to all nominees and winners, it is an absolute honour to work alongside you to ensure the industry continues to go from strength to strength.
“Your outstanding contributions to our tourism industry reflects the passion, creativity and authenticity that make visitors eager to explore all the incredible destinations across our country.
“Your efforts have not only enhanced the global appeal of Australia but have also supported thousands of jobs, strengthened local communities, and contributed to the continued growth of our economy.”
Quotes attributable to Shaun de Bruyn, Chairperson of Australian Tourism Awards:
“Over the past 40 years, the Australian Tourism Awards have been a testament to the vision, perseverance and passion of our industry. Each winner represents the evolving spirit of Australian tourism – businesses that embrace innovation, adapt to change, and continually raise the bar for visitor experiences.
“This milestone is not just about celebrating history but also looking ahead to who will shape Australian tourism into the future.”
– ENDS –
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