Nine South Australian tourism businesses can proudly declare they are among the best in the nation, following a spectacular evening celebrating 40 years of national excellence at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards held last night in Adelaide.
The iconic Seppeltsfield Barossa confirmed their status as South Australia’s most outstanding winery tourism experience by winning Gold in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries category. First time national finalists, Old Coach Road Estate won Gold for their secluded and luxurious property in the self-contained accommodation category.
South Australian tourism is also sparkling silver and bronze. Silver medals were awarded to Oval Hotel in the 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation category, The Big Duck Boat Tours for Ecotourism and Big Duck’s sister business Spirit of Coorong for Tourism & Transport Operators. Bendleby Ranges, who have consistently medalled in the Adventure Tourism category over the last four years, add another Silver to their heaving trophy cupboard.
Kool Tours received a Bronze medal in the Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences category, a notable achievement for this admired Aboriginal-owned tourism business operating across Kangaroo Island and the Fleurieu Peninsula. Bronze was also won by Barossa Australia for ‘Barossa. Be Curious’ in the Tourism & Marketing Campaigns category, and Adelaide Fringe for Accessible Tourism.
The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognises Australia’s most exceptional tourism businesses, showcasing the dedication to quality and innovation that defines Australian tourism. 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.
Tourism Industry Council South Australia (TiCSA) delivers the annual South Australian Tourism Awards, the winners of which go on to compete in the Australian Tourism Awards. TiCSA CEO, Shaun de Bruyn, congratulated all South Australian finalists on representing South Australia’s tourism industry at a national level.
“The Australian Tourism Awards is a highly competitive awards program that demands passionate commitment to tourism excellence.
“We know South Australia has exceptional tourism businesses and experiences, and it is always hugely satisfying to see this recognised on the national stage. Our tourism operators are some of the proudest South Australians going. They love sharing what is unique and special about South Australia with visitors from across the country and around the world, and we are delighted to celebrate in their success.”
Minister for Tourism, the Hon Zoe Bettison MP, also congratulated medal winners.
“As a destination of celebration, it was an honour to host the night of nights for our country’s tourism industry and mark the 40th anniversary of the Australian Tourism Awards in Adelaide, South Australia.
“A lot has changed about our State’s tourism industry in the 10 years since we last hosted the national awards, so I was incredibly proud to share some of the advancements we have made to the leading industry delegates here this week.
“A massive congratulations to the tourism businesses who took home an award, the accolades are so well-deserved and demonstrate the diversity and quality of our tourism industry on the national stage.”
Emma Terry, CEO, South Australian Tourism Commission, was equally proud of South Australia’s results and Adelaide’s hosting of the prestigious event.
“South Australia shone brightly at the 40th Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, showcasing the State’s unique blend of hospitality and innovation that leaves a lasting impression
“Not only did we see our tourism operators rewarded for their innovation and dedication to delivering high-quality tourism products, but industry from across the country could experience for themselves the special kind of hospitality South Australia is known for.
“I know the hundreds of tourism delegates here this week have seen and experienced our new luxury hotels, world-class events such as the Adelaide Fringe, and new product offerings – which are all a marker of excellence for Australia’s tourism industry.”
Overall, 78 awards were presented at the gala dinner, with gold, silver and bronze awarded in each category. For more information visit https://australiantourismawards.com.au/
Nominations for the 2025 South Australian Tourism Awards open on Thursday 1 May. For further information, visit www.satourismawards.com.au.