australian tourism hall of fame

The National Awards for the Tourism Industry

Australian Tourism Awards is the pinnacle awards program for the Australian tourism Industry. The national program recognises and rewards businesses who are committed to excellence, innovation, and outstanding achievements in tourism.

Celebrating its 40th year, the 2024 awards program has commenced with nominations now open for each state/territory. Winners from these awards will compete on the national stage, with winners announced at the gala event, which will be be held on March 21st 2025 in Adelaide.

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are the tourism industry’s national standard of excellence. Finalists are chosen from each state and territory’s Gold Tourism Award winners and are then put to our panel of expert industry judges, where a winner of the nation is crowned. The winners are all shapes and sizes, serious and fun, and come from all walks of Australian life.

A wide and diverse range of tourism businesses are encouraged to enter – over 200 entrants from across the country will then reach the prestigious status of becoming a national finalist at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

The national awards program will be celebrating its 40th Anniversary at the 2024 The Australian Tourism AwardsGala Event on March 21st, 2025 in Adelaide.

Australia’s winners will be announced at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards Ceremony in front of an audience of industry leaders and peers. The prestigious Hall of Fame trophy is awarded to an entrant who has won the same category for three consecutive years.

The Talking Tourism Business Forum brings tourism business operators together to enable effective peer-to-peer learning and development.

The purpose of the Business Forum is to engage and inspire those operating businesses within the tourism industry, support connections across sectors and the country. The Business Forum is thoughtfully curated so that each attendee should be able to take away some valuable learnings that they can implement into their tourism business to continue to grow and elevate their offerings.

Expect engaging talks and be prepared to be immersed in a learning environment where you’ll hear from the best of the best to uncover new ways to grow and elevate your business that will drive your business’ success.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to revitalise your outlook and shape the future of your tourism business.

How to enter the Awards

To enter the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards:

1. Enter your state’s awards by writing a report for 1 or more categories 2. Win GOLD in a category 3. You will automatically be entered into the national awards for the category you won in

From there, your report will be judged against other States in the same category. Please see below for each state/territory award program.

Canberra Region Tourism Awards

South Australian Tourism Awards

NSW Tourism Awards

Tasmanian Tourism Awards

Northern Territory Tourism Awards

Victorian Tourism Awards

Queensland Tourism Awards

Western Australian Tourism Awards

Judging Process

We pride ourselves on the integrity of the Australian Tourism Awards judging process.

The judging panel comprises a cross section of tourism industry experts, selected for their knowledge and experience. The panel is made up of 32 judges – 4 from each of the states and territories and is overseen by our Chair of Judges.

A Chair of Judges is selected for a 3 year term, after meeting rigorous criteria – based on experience and leadership qualities.

Our auditors, Ernst and Young provide professional and qualified services and act in an independent capacity to review judging decisions.

Australian Tourism Awards

ABN 31 095 626 976 Suite 207/208, 530 Little Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000

(03) 9046 2339 [email protected]

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Home » News » Qantas Australian Tourism Awards winners revealed

Qantas Australian Tourism Awards winners revealed

Australia’s tourism industry got together to party down and celebrate business excellence on Friday, at the 2021 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

The event, which was hosted at the Novotel Sunshine Coast Convention Centre in QLD, saw Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience inducted into the Australian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for taking the top honours in Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries for the past three years.

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria took home gold for Major Tourist Attraction, as did Saffire Freycinet in 5-Star Luxury Accommodation and Freemantle Prison for Cultural Tourism.

Other winners include Ingenia Holidays South West Rocks for Caravan and Holiday Parks, Beach Huts Middleton for 3-3.5 Star Accommodation, Darwin Convention Centre for Business Event venues and Red Cat Adventures for Adventure Tourism.

Overall there were 75 awards presented across 25 categories.

Queensland Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk congratulated the award recipients.

“The Australian Tourism Awards is a celebration of adaptability and creativity across the tourism industry, and we’re proud to have welcomed so many industry leaders and innovators to Queensland’s spectacular Sunshine Coast for the Awards this year,” Palaszczuk said.

“It’s been a joy to celebrate a sector that has shown determination and innovation in the face of a global pandemic.”

Qantas Group chief customer office Stephanie Tully added to the Premier’s sentiments.

“As the national carrier, we’re delighted to be celebrating and championing the best of the industry after a particularly tough two years for Australian tourism.

“We’ve seen travel demand rebound strongly this year and we’re really excited to help travellers from home and abroad rediscover this amazing country and support Australian tourism operators to get back to doing what they do best,” Tully added.

Check out the full list of winners below:

BRONZE WINNERS

SILVER WINNERS

GOLD WINNERS

Email the Travel Weekly team at [email protected]

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15 BEST Things To Do In Uluru – 2024 Visitor’s Guide

Looking for the best things to do in Uluru? You’re in luck, as this guide is everything you need and more!

Uluru is a sacred site located in the Northern Territory of Australia. It’s so magnificent it’s been placed on UNESCO’s World Heritage list TWICE!

Standing at 348 meters high, this landmass was formed over 500 million years ago, and not only can it be admired for its everlasting beauty, but it has influenced the cultural values and beliefs of its traditional owners, the Anangu people.

This breathtaking natural wonder of the world is perfect for every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, having a romantic holiday, or just wanting to learn more about the culture, there is something here for everyone.

I have put together this complete guide of 15  Best Things To Do In Uluru to help you plan your trip!

Table of Contents

QUICK ANSWERS – BEST THINGS TO DO IN ULURU

Let’s start this guide by discussing all the essentials, such as the location, how to get there, and much more.

WHERE IS ULURU LOCATED?

Uluru is one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks , located in the southern part of the Northern Territory and situated almost right in the middle of Australia.

Due to its color and geographical feature, it’s often known as the ‘Red Centre’.

Click here to see the location of Uluru on Google maps .

HOW TO GET TO ULURU?

The best and easiest way to get to Uluru is by plane and the nearest airport to the Big Rock is Yulara.

The airport is called Ayers Rock/Connellan Airport (AYQ) and there are daily flights to Uluru from the major cities within Australia.

See the list below for a brief overview of flight times to Uluru:

• Melbourne to Uluru – 2.5 hours
• Sydney to Uluru – 3 hours
• Brisbane to Uluru – 3 hours 15 minutes
• Adelaide to Uluru – 2 hours
• Darwin to Uluru – 2 hours 15 minutes
• Alice Springs to Uluru – 45 minutes

When you arrive, you can rent a car at the airport for the time you plan to spend exploring Uluru National Park

There are only a limited amount of rental cars available so be sure to book online a few weeks in advance to avoid missing out.

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BEST TIME TO VISIT ULURU

The best time to visit Uluru is between May and September.

At this time, the temperatures stay between 20 – 30 degrees Celsius which is much more comfortable compared to the hot and humid summer heat.

During the night, Uluru can still experience some cold weather, so it’s recommended to always bring some warm clothes with you.

INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT ULURU

• Uluru is higher than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Eureka Tower in Melbourne, and the Chrysler Building in New York.
• Evidence shows that the Anangu people have inhabited Central Australia for more than 30,000 years.
• As described earlier, Uluru has two World Heritage site listings. The first listing was in 1987 due to its geology. The second time was in 1994 when Uluru was recognized as a cultural site to its significance to the Anangu people.
• The rock was formed roughly 600 million years ago and used to be at sea level. Now, it sits at around 348 meters high.
• Climbing is prohibited, so that’s not an option when considering what to do Uluru.

Pssst! Check out this EPIC Hiking Backpack!

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With great internal organization, this is all you need for your next adventure, no matter the weather!

15 BEST THINGS TO DO IN ULURU

Now that you’ve got some background information on how to get to Uluru, the best time to visit, and interesting facts about Uluru, let’s get to the good stuff.

So, without further ado, here is a complete list of 15 awesome things to do at Uluru during your visit.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ULURU WITH SUNRISE

For the best start to the day in Uluru, then taking this tour of the highlights in the region is your best bet.

After a delicious picnic breakfast, you’ll go visit Mutitjulu Waterhole, check out the ancient rock art, and drive around Uluru’s base.

While this tour only lasts 3 hours, it covers all the essentials in and around Uluru that you can’t miss – Plus, you’ll witness one of the best sunrises in your life!

Check out the tour here below. Note that it sells out fast, so make sure to book ahead of time.

BEST ULURU TOUR

The BEST way to discover Uluru is by joining a Highlight of Uluru Tour With Sunrise !

It includes hotel transfers, breakfast, endless photo opportunities, and a fun group to share the moment with!

SOUNDS OF SILENCE DINNER EXPERIENCE  

The Sounds of Silence Uluru is so popular that it’s been entered into the Australian Tourism Hall of Fame.

Over the course of 4 hours, enjoy an evening dinner filled with workshops and an unforgettable experience under the stars of the southern hemisphere.

The night will start off with a wine overlooking the National Park while listening to the didgeridoo playing in the background as the sun sets.

Dinner will be made out of high-quality Australian produce and cooked with native ingredients.

Afterward, listen to a guided presentation while you look up at the milky way and learn all about the planets and stars.

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ULURU HELICOPTER RIDE

Experience Uluru in a way that you’ll remember for years to come!

An Uluru helicopter tour is by far one of the best things to do in Uluru which allows you to see the Big Rock and the dome formations of Kata Tjuta from an amazing birds-eye perspective.

Uluru helicopter tours run all day and the flight time is around 30 minutes.

If available, I highly recommend booking the chopper flight for either sunrise or sunset. It truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Of course, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park is the home of Uluru Australia, and seeing it from high up is definitely something to experience at least once in your lifetime.

SUNSET AT ULURU

Next on this list of things to do in Uluru is to check out the spectacular viewpoint looking right at Uluru and watching the sunset!

You can expect to see many different shades of pink, orange, and yellows when watching the sunset at Uluru which will display across the sky and it’s definitely something worth seeing during your visit.

This viewing area is for cars only however, there are buses that can take you up to the viewing point if you don’t have your own vehicle.

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KINGS CANYON DAY TRIP  

Last but not least on this list of things to do at Uluru is a day trip to Kings Canyon . If you are seeking a big day full of adventure then this is the tour for you.

Kings Canyon is located right in the middle of Watarrka National Park, just a 3.5-hour drive from Uluru.

The canyon is famous for its walking tracks, rock climbing, and its views of chasms and cliffs.

You can also complete a 2km walk along the creek that opens up to some spectacular views of the canyon rim.

This tour is a full 12-hour day, but if you’re up for the challenge you won’t be disappointed!

ULURU SEGWAY TOUR

Ever wanted to try out riding around on a Segway? Well, this is one of the best activities in Uluru you can try out during your stay.

Wake up at sunrise and cruise around the 12km long base of Uluru. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to go to the stunning Mutitjulu waterhole.

There are various Segway Uluru tours available that run from the morning until sunset and each tour goes for around 3 hours.

FIELD OF LIGHT ULURU

I am sure most of you have either heard about or seen photos of the Field of Light Uluru and it’s definitely not to be missed during your visit.

Before the sun rises and Uluru is bound by darkness, the Field of Light comes to life, illuminating an area the size of seven football fields.

Experience a memorable couple of hours at the Field of Light Uluru and wander around this impressive art installation by the works of none other than Bruce Munro, an internationally recognized artist.

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If you’re on the hunt for a professional camera for traveling, check out the Canon G7 X Mark II .

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VISIT THE DOMES OF KATA TJUTA

Want to see some flora and fauna only found in the deep Australian outback? Brace yourself for some of the best things to do in Ayers Rock, near Uluru.

Visiting the domes of Kata Tjuta is a chance to learn about the diverse environment and the significance of the land to the Anangu Peoples’ culture.

From Uluru, the drive to Kata Tjuta takes approximately 45 minutes.

When you make the journey to Kata Tjuta, you’ll be able to walk through Walpa Gorge and discover how these rock formations developed millions of years ago.

A visit to the Kata Tjuta domes is a must while visiting Uluru, and you’ll want to book the tour here below, which includes a stop at the Cultural Center – More about this below.

DISCOVER THE ULURU-KATA TJUTA CULTURAL CENTRE

If you’re heading out on a day trip from Uluru to Kata Tjuta, don’t forget to stop by the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre!

The reason being is that you’ll get an immersive and educational experience about Indigenous culture.

With fascinating displays showing the history and traditions of the Anangu people, the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre is a great starting point when coming to the Northern Territory.

The BEST Hotel in Uluru

Need a place to stay? Sails in the Desert is conveniently located right in Ayers Rock, near Uluru.

Whether you’re here to explore the sights or relax in comfort, Sails in the Desert offers the best of both worlds.

LEARN TO PLAY THE DIDGERIDOO

Have you ever wanted to learn how to play the Didgeridoo? Well, now is your chance!

Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday you can join in on a free workshop located at the Resort Town Square which is hosted by an Indigenous guide.

The workshop runs for about 45 minutes and you can listen to the sounds of the didgeridoo before being invited to give it a go yourself.

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TAKE A PHOTO ON THE DIRT ROADS

This activity isn’t on most Uluru itineraries but if you’re up for an adventure and keen to get a unique photo of Uluru then this is an opportunity not to be missed.

There are many dirt roads surrounding Uluru, some of which have restricted access but there are a few that are open to the public and they make for an epic photo with Uluru standing prominently in the backdrop.

It’s best to have a drone to take a photo on the dirt roads as you’ll be able to get an aerial perspective and work with the leading lines.

JOIN A DOT PAINTING AND ABORIGINAL ART WORKSHOP

If there’s a cultural activity you shouldn’t miss when in Uluru, it’s certainly this Dot Painting and Aboriginal Art Workshop .

Led by a knowledgeable Aṉangu guide, explore the Mala walk and gain insight into the oldest living culture on Earth.

The highlight of the tour is a dot painting workshop, where you will have the opportunity to participate in a traditional Aboriginal art painting activity

The workshop presents a way to appreciate the cultural heritage of the Aṉangu people while also learning about their storytelling traditions.

And if it wasn’t enough, you’ll be joined by an Aṉangu guide, which makes everything so much more unique!

Still thinking about it? Book now, this tour is one of the most popular things to do near Uluru and you definitely don’t want to skip it.

PHOTOGRAPH THE KANTJU GORGE

Next on this list is the Kantju Gorge, located west of Uluru and providing breathtaking views that you won’t want to miss.

It is a perfect spot to take your camera and snap some beautiful photos to capture your memories.

You’ll also see the water from the Mutitjulu Waterhole, which was a source of water for aborigen people for generations, and I recommend taking a tour around Uluru’s base to hear all the stories behind the landscape.

Lastly, the Kantju Gorge is only about 500 meters away from the Mala Walk, so you can easily do both at once! More about the Mala Walk here below.

THE MALA WALK

Among the countless things to do in Uluru, the 2-km return Mala Walk is an adventure that you simply cannot miss.

This trail will take you through rugged landscapes and ancient rock formations, providing an unforgettable, immersive experience of Uluru’s natural beauty and rich history.

The best part? You can join a free tour by rangers to the Mala Walk!

The walk also offers opportunities to spot local flora and fauna, from desert flowers to wallabies, adding to the magic of the experience.

The tour lasts 1 hour and 30 minutes and starts at 8:00 am from October to April and at 10:00 am from May to September.

DISCOVER THE MUTITJULU WATERHOLE

Another of the best things to do and see in Uluru is the Mutitjulu Waterhole. Nestled at the base of Uluru, this hidden oasis is surrounded by towering sandstone cliffs and a lush array of greenery.

It is a sacred site to the Anangu people and offers a nice escape from the desert heat.

Take photos around and enjoy a peaceful stroll along the walking trail. If you’re lucky, it’ll rain the night before so you can see the waterhole full!

It’s worth noting that the Highlights of Uluru Tour also includes a visit to Mutitjulu Waterhole, and that’s only another reason to book it!

WHERE TO STAY IN ULURU

There are several accommodation options to choose from in Uluru, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay to fit the needs of budget backpackers, luxury travelers, and everyone in between.

See the list of Uluru accommodations below that I personally recommend.

LUXURY: SAILS IN THE DESERT

MID-RANGE: THE LOST CAMEL

MID-RANGE: DESERT GARDENS HOTEL

WHAT TO PACK FOR NORTHERN TERRITORY

When visiting Uluru , here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:

Must-Have Travel Essentials

Hidden money wallet.

Keep your cash and other valuables safe with this anti-theft hidden money wallet!

Reusable Water Bottle

The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!

Travel Backpack

The Nomatic Travel Backpack has 20+ innovative features, perfect for everyday use!

Quick-Dry Travel Towel

The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!

Portable PowerBank

Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!

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FINAL THOUGHTS – WHAT TO DO IN ULURU

I hope you enjoyed reading this article about these popular and unusual things to do Uluru and if you have any questions about these Uluru activities, please leave a comment at the bottom of this post and I will get back to you as soon as I can.

For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.

TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!

Search and book accommodation worldwide.

Compare and book cheap flights to anywhere.

Find tickets, tours, and experiences around the world.

Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.

Search all rental cars in your next destination.

Need travel insurance for your next trip?

THANKS FOR READING

Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!

Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.

Click here to find out how you can support the site organically .

Many thanks!

This trip was in association with NT Tourism and Backyard Bandits.

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12 tourism businesses inducted into Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame

12 eco and nature-based tourism businesses have cemented their legacy as leaders in Australia’s sustainable tourism industry by achieving 20 years of ECO Certification and entering Ecotourism Australia’s prestigious Hall of Fame.

A further 23 ECO Certified tourism operators have been recognised as ‘Green Travel Leaders’ for their 10 years of certification.

Congratulating the operators for their outstanding efforts over a significant period, Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive, Elissa Keenan advised “our new Hall of Fame entrants have been ECO Certified for more than twenty years and are among Australia’s first sustainable tourism innovators. They join 50 operators who been awarded Hall of Fame status since 1997.

“Similarly, our Green Travel Leaders, who are tourism businesses that have reached a decade of ECO Certification, should be commended for their continuous commitment to global sustainability standards.

“With travellers increasingly seeking transformative and sustainable experiences that make a difference, these operators are at the forefront of world-class sustainability leadership.

Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification program standard is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC). The certification not only provides operators with key business development tools and equips them to champion their dedication to sustainability in tourism, but it ensures continuous accountability towards long-term sustainability goals.

Joh Bloomberg, Safety, Environment and Community Manager at Tasmanian Walking Company, this year recognised as a Green Travel Leader, commented “certification has acted as a super helpful signpost, pointing out which direction we should walk in.

“By using the Ecotourism Australia accreditation and certification process we have been able to anchor our passion and ideas in a solid, usable, and useful framework that helps us build on our current initiatives and shows the way for continuous improvement across the business.”

25 years of certification 2023 is a milestone year for Ecotourism Australia, with 14 businesses noted for reaching 25 years of ECO Certification. Already recognised in the Hall of Fame, these operators are the original pioneers of ecotourism globally.

Richard Berman-Hardman, General Manager of Skyrail Rainforest Cableway in Far North Queensland, went on to say “as an ecotourism leader, we are driven by a sustainability mission which sees us continuously challenging ourselves to learn and improve how we operate.

“We are also privileged to have the opportunity to connect thousands of people from all over the world with the story of the oldest, most important rainforest environment on Earth and we are committed to raising awareness and delivering an experience which builds enthusiasm and passion for the ecosystem we present.

“We feel that Ecotourism Australia understands this and shares our vision for a progressive, sustainable mindset within the visitor economy. ECO certification provides assurances to prospective visitors that they are choosing an ethical, well managed product and we couldn’t imagine operating without this seal of approval.”

All operators certified by Ecotourism Australia are featured on the all-in-one sustainable travel platform, the Green Travel Guide. The Green Travel Guide allows travellers to find over 1,800 certified and sustainable experiences across Australia and book directly with operators.

25+ years certified  Queensland  • Quicksilver Connections • Wavedancer - Low Isles • Binna Burra Mountain Lodge • Kingfisher Bay Resort • Skyrail Rainforest Cableway • Tour Gold Coast • Ocean Rafting • O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat • Wildlife Habitat • Canopy Rainforest Tree Houses & Wildlife Sanctuary • Wavelength Reef Cruises

Victoria • Gippsland High Country Tours (After 32 years of operating, Gippsland High Country Tours have decided to close their doors. We thank them for their contribution to certified sustainable tourism as one of the first operators to achieve ECO Certification.)

South Australia • Exceptional Kangaroo Island

Northern Territory   • Gecko Canoeing and Trekking

Hall of Fame entrants 2023 (20 years of ECO Certification) Western Australia • Forest Rise Chalets & Lodge • Kimberley Quest • The Great Escape Charter Company • Three Islands Whale Shark Dive • Ningaloo Coral Bay Boats • Go Wild Adventure Tours

Queensland • Hervey Bay Whale Watch • Tallship Adventures & Tallship Derwent Hunter

South Australia • Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary • Rawnsley Park Station

Northern Territory   • Alice Springs Desert Park

National  • Coral Expeditions 

Green Travel Leaders 2023 (10 years of ECO Certification) New South Wales • Tribal Warrior • Simmo's Offroad Tours • Broger's End Kangaroo Valley • Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat • Oakvale Wildlife Park • Spirit Safaris • Noonaweena • AquaFun Avoca Lake

Queensland   • Tasman Venture • Horizon Guides • Australian Sunset Safaris • Whitsunday Escape Pty Ltd • Queensland Japanese Services

Tasmania • Tasmanian Expeditions • Tarkine Wilderness Lodge Meunna • Tasmanian Walking Company • Freycinet Experience Walk

South Australia  • Temptation Dolphin Cruise  • Untamed Escapes

Victoria • Torquay Surfing Academy

Western Australia • Absolute Ocean Charters

Northern Territory • Cicada Lodge

National  • World Expeditions & Australian Walking Holidays

Images: Guest enjoying sunset drinks on Verandah Beach in the Kimberleys (top, credit: Coral Expeditions) and trail walking in Tasmania (middel, credit: Tasmanian Walking Company) and the Skyrail Rainforest Cableway (below, credit: TEQ).

Related Articles

29th June 2023 - Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience certified by Ecotourism Australia for prioritising sustainability

26th May 2023 - East Gippsland certified as first ECO Destination in Victoria

6th May 2023 - Ecotourism Australia encouraged by sustainable tourism demand at ATE23

26th April 2023 - Big Red Group and Ecotourism Australia partner to help experience operators achieve sustainability

4th April 2023 - Ecotourism Australia partnership sees sustainable tourism experiences showcased via ATDW

29th March 2023 - ECO Think Destination Forum commences at Mon Repos Turtle Centre in Bundaberg

28th March 2023 - Ecotourism Australia certified business wins Sustainable Tourism Award

20th March 2023 - Ecotourism Australia certified businesses secure Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

5th March 2023 - Blue Mountains secures global ECO Destination Certification

7th December 2022 - Chief Executive highlights Ecotourism Australia’s 2022 achievements

29th November 2022 - Eco Expo Asia 2022 returns in December with the theme “Green Innovations for Carbon Neutrality”

20th November 2022 - Ecotourism Australia partners with Tourism Australia to launch new sustainable tourism program

9th November 2022 - Tasmanian Ecotourism Pioneers mark 30 years of operations

18th August 2022 - Tasmanian Walking Company launches Walk+ Collection

14th June 2022 - Margaret River certified as first ECO Destination in Western Australia

9th October 2021 - Google commences showcasing ECO Certification in accommodation listings

1st July 2021 - Ecotourism Australia launches new version of Green Travel Guide

14th December 2020 - Ecotourism Australia reviews 2020 Global Eco Asia-Pacific Tourism Conference

20th November 2020 - Five Satellite Node ECO Destinations to host Global Eco Asia-Pacific Tourism Conference

22nd October 2020 - ECO Destinations live stream 2020 Global Eco Conference while tailoring region-specific onsite programs

3rd August 2020 - Ecotourism Australia waivers certification renewals while also planning for Global Eco Conference

29th May 2020 - Global Eco Asia-Pacific commits to 2020 conference in Margaret River

5th June 2020 - Tasmanian Walking Company launches philanthropic initiative on World Environment Day

20th October 2019 - Global Eco Asia-Pacific Conference aims to inspire nature-based tourism leaders

1st May 2014 - Skyrail launches new open air gondola experience

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The Queensland Cabinet and Ministerial Directory

Australia zoo makes the tourism hall of fame.

Published Friday, 13 November, 2009 at 10:00 PM

Minister for Tourism and Fair Trading The Honourable Peter Lawlor

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Tourism honour for luxury Kimberley cruiser

North star cruises enters western australia’s tourism hall of fame.

Its official – North Star Cruises Australia is headed for the Western Australian tourism Hall of Fame.

The company recently secured its third consecutive win at the 2007 WA Tourism Awards and, entry into the coveted Hall of Fame!

North Star’s general manger, Mr. Peter Trembath, claimed entry into the Hall of Fame as industry recognition of North Star’s sustained performance at the highest level.

“Our guests come aboard with the highest expectations yet they consistently acknowledge that their experience on the True North was the best holiday that they have ever had”!

“Now our peers in the tourism industry have formally acknowledged the same” Mr Trembath said. “A trip on the True North is the best adventure-holiday you can have”!

In accepting the 2007 award, North Star’s managing director, Craig Howson, cautioned that industrialization was threatening the company’s principle area of operation. Mr Howson strongly recommended that more responsible planning was necessary to preserve the Kimberley region’s stunning wilderness qualities.

The company’s much lauded adventure-cruise ship True North, is currently cruising in Papua New Guinea and will visit Sydney over the Christmas/New Yea r period.

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Hall of Fame

In 2018, 14 ECO Certified operators in Australia reached a brand new milestone: 20 years of membership of Ecotourism Australia. Since then, another 12 have achieved 20 years of certification. We want to recognise their long-term commitment to ecologically sustainable tourism, which fosters environmental and cultural understanding, appreciation and conservation, here. These are our nation's first ecotourism innovators - the ones who have helped pave the way for responsible and sustainable tourism as we experience it today. These are our 20+ year certified operators - this is our Ecotourism Australia Hall of Fame.

ARAUCARIA ECOTOURS

Advanced ecotourism | certified since 2000, billabong sanctuary, advanced ecotourism | certified since 1999, billy tea safaris, advanced ecotourism, climate action business & roc | certified since 1999, binna burra mountain lodge, advanced ecotourism | certified since 1997, broken river mountain resort, ecotourism | certified since 2000, capricorn caves, cairns adventure group, ecotourism & climate action business | certified since 1999, canopy rainforest tree houses & wildlife sanctuary, advanced ecotourism | certified since 1998, cruise maroochy ecotours.

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About the 49ers Museum presented by Foxconn Industrial Internet

Featuring 11 unique gallery and exhibit spaces, the 49ers Museum presented by Foxconn Industrial Internet is a 20,000 square foot facility dedicated to the 49ers past, present and future.

The museum is dedicated to its values of education, innovation and heritage and is committed to serving as an exciting, engaging home for fans of all ages.

To explore more topics about 49ers history, visit the Museum’s Longform Article Series .

Entry tickets will be available for purchase in the Museum’s lobby during operating hours.

Step into our Augmented Reality to take your place beside current and former players or take in our “What’s Trending” display featuring everything you want to know about the team’s recent success, what’s happening in the museum and our most recently curated artifacts.

Fact of the day

Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Joe Montana was born in New Eagle, PA. The three-time Super Bowl MVP played 13 seasons in San Francisco and was known for his calm demeanor in tense moments. At Super Bowl XXIII the 49ers trailed Cincinnati 16-13 with just over three minutes to play and 92 yards to the end zone. In the huddle Montana motioned toward the stands and said, “Hey, isn’t that John Candy over there?” Moments later Montana started an 11-play, game-winning drive. He finished it with a 10-yard scoring strike to John Taylor with 34 seconds to play. The 49ers selected Montana in the third round of the 1979 NFL draft. In regular season and postseason play for the 49ers, Montana threw for 283 touchdowns and nearly 40,000 yards.

Inside the Morabito Theater — which features a 50’ x 18’ screen and 4K technology — you’ll be inspired by the story of the 49ers as told through our signature film.

Walk amongst life-sized statues of our 31 Hall of Famers in their signature poses. Snap a photo next to Coach Bill Walsh and Joe Montana or put yourself in the huddle with the Million Dollar Backfield.

Explore an interactive touch screen and listen to first-person stories from the 49ers all-time roster about what it was like to play for the team. An interactive database will allow visitors to research every possible stat on every person that ever wore a 49ers uniform.

An homage to one of the most influential people the NFL has ever known, this re-creation of Coach Walsh’s Redwood City office serves as both a treasure trove of artifacts and the home of a signature film on Coach Walsh as told from the eyes of players, friends and others. The Bill Walsh Coaching Universe features an interactive exhibit that chronicles the coach’s vast impact on the coaching ranks of professional football.

An era-by-era experience of historical items, stories, interactive exhibits and one-of-a-kind artifacts. Spanning the years of 1946 until the present day, guests will leave the Heritage gallery with a deep appreciation for the history and tradition that are so important to the 49ers organization. 

Sports figures in the Bay Area spurred social change that impacted the nation and the world. This exhibit examines five stories where the message met the moment, and sports figures intersected with social issues to create cultural touchstones and push movements forward.

This state-of-the-art classroom is the pillar around which the 49ers industry-leading education program is built and also offers content on how the 49ers impact the community in so many positive ways. Learn more about 49ers EDU STEAM Field Trips here .

Get ready to engage with the game of football. “In the Game” offers multiple interactive challenges and exhibits, including “Be the Broadcaster”—a real-life booth where fans can call the team’s most iconic plays—and the “Gridiron Challenge”, a series of motion-driven, gesture-based challenges that bring out the athlete, cheerleader, uniform designer and touchdown scorer in everyone.

The home to the 49ers five Lombardi trophies and the rings associated with each championship is each guest’s last stop in the museum. Enjoy the photo opportunity while you take in yet another feature film on what it was like to be a part of 49ers history.

John Todd, WA football legend and former West Coast Eagles coach, dies aged 86

John Todd, one of the most influential figures in WA football history, has died at the age of 86.

Todd, who coached the West Coast Eagles for the 1988 and 1989 seasons, made his name in the Western Australian Football League (WAFL), first as a star player and later as a successful coach.

He burst onto the scene, debuting for South Fremantle's senior side as a 16-year-old in 1955.

He enjoyed a magical first year, taking out the Sandover Medal for the league's best and fairest player.

Tragically, he was just 17 when he suffered a serious knee injury. It would go on to curtail what could have been one of the greatest careers of all time.

Despite the injury he managed play on, registering 132 games for South Fremantle and 13 for Western Australia.

In 1961, he was part of a WA side that won the Australian championships and Todd was judged an All Australian.

He began coaching South Fremantle as player coach in 1959, at the age of 20, and by the time his coaching career had ended in 2001 he had coached six premierships.

Those were for East Fremantle (1974), South Fremantle (1997) and four for Swan Districts (1982, 1983, 1984 and 1990).

He also coached the West Coast Eagles to their first finals appearance, in 1988, when they were beaten in a thriller by Melbourne at Waverley Park.

Tributes after Hall of Fame career

West Coast CEO Don Pyke said Todd was a "key figure in making us the club that we are today".

"He was one of the club's pioneers operating with no genuine home base and with a range of other obstacles in his path," Pyke said.

"He is a legend of the game and as a club we are extremely grateful for his contribution.

"On behalf of everyone at the club, I offer our deepest condolences to John's family, friends and loved ones."

Todd was sacked as coach of West Coast at the end of 1989, but returned to Swan Districts the following year where he again won the WAFL premiership.

His final premiership came in 1997 with the club where it all began, South Fremantle.

Todd was inducted into the Australian Football Hall of Fame in 2003, and in 2004 was elevated to legend status in the West Australian Football Hall of Fame.

In 2011 he was inducted into South Fremantle's Hall of Fame as an inaugural legend, and was named Swan Districts' coach of the century. 

AFL Commission Chair Richard Goyder, who is also chair of the Australian Football Hall of Fame, said Todd would be missed.

"John Todd was successful in every aspect of his football journey and influenced so much of West Australian football to demand the highest standards and seek for constant improvement," Goyder said.

"He moulded players into great teams but I want to acknowledge too that John had an unbelievable love of the game and football people across his entire life.

"In the privilege of being able to spend time with him in recent years, he was still a regular attendee at games, engaged with everyone across football and was a great advocate for the game and what it could do for people and communities.

"He was incredibly tough, building his career after injury took away his playing days, and he had the highest standards as a coach."

Swan Districts vice president Andy Holmes said it was a very sad day for the club.

"His long service and success at our club was legendary," he said.

"Those players who played under Toddy knew how uncompromising he was as a coach, but he made us all better players and more importantly better men.

"The club was preparing for the annual John Todd Cup against South Fremantle at our next home game on Saturday 15 June. 

"It will now be a memorial to a great man who will be sadly missed."

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