The vibes were high last night, as over 600 guests gathered at the Adelaide Convention Centre to celebrate the annual South Australian Tourism Awards. With tourism operators travelling from near and far, it was fantastic to see some friendly faces … and some new friends too!
We were lucky enough to be interviewing each winner right after they won their award — arguably the best job of the night! Hearing the stories, trials, triumphs and the “why” behind so many incredible local tourism businesses was absolutely inspiring and a total privilege.
A reminder for all of us to get out there, explore our beautiful state, and support local tourism! And, why not start with the award-winners listed below…
Unique Accommodation – Woodhouse Adventure Park
Hosted Accommodation – Oceanview Eco Villas
Cultural Tourism – The Cedars Hahndorf
Ecotourism – The Big Duck Boat Tours
Excellence in Accessible Tourism – Adelaide Fringe
Young Achiever – Isabel Nietschke
Self-contained Accommodation – Naiko Retreat
Tourism Marketing & Campaigns – Regional Development Australia Eyre Peninsula – “Eyre – The Wild Side”
Adventure Tourism – Bendleby Ranges
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island Tourism Experience – Kool Tours
Tour & Transport Operators – Spirit of the Coorong
New Tourism Business – Port River Cruises
Tourist Attractions – d’Arenberg
Major Tourist Attractions – Monarto Safari Park
Business Event Venues – Adelaide Oval
4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation – Beach Huts Middleton
5 Star Luxury Accommodation – Sequoia Lodge
Tourism Distilleries & Breweries – Twenty Third Street Distillery
Tourism Wineries – Seppeltsfield Wines
Visitor Information Services – Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre
Caravan & Holiday Parks – BIG4 West Beach Parks
South Australian Taxi Driver of the Year – Jayant Jain
Excellence In Food Tourism – Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market
Tourism Retail & Hire Services – Copper Trails Bike Hire
3-3.5 Star Accommodation – Ibis Adelaide
Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services – The Currant Shed
Festivals & Events – 2023 Let’s Go Caravan, Camping and Outdoor Show
Major Festivals & Events – Illuminate Adelaide
Voters’ Choice Tourism Award – Accommodation – BIG4 Renmark Riverfront Holiday Park
Voters’ Choice Tourism Award – Experience / Service – Monarto Safari Park
Outstanding Contribution by an Individual – Ian Horne
Another HUGE congratulations to all the winners!