The achievements of the State's tourism industry were celebrated last night during a special ceremony at Luna Park Sydney to mark the 2016 NSW Tourism Awards.

NSW Minister for Trade, Tourism and Major Events Stuart Ayres said the awards showcase the State's finest tourism operators helping to drive unprecedented visitor numbers.

“NSW's continuing tourism success story is capturing international attention. Thanks to the superstars of our tourism industry, the next chapter is set to be an incredible one,” Mr Ayers said.

“NSW, with our glorious harbour city and magnificent regions is now at the top of the wish list for travellers and it's easy to see why. 

“These operators have helped us grow the value of NSW tourism – which reaped $25.5 billion in visitor expenditure for our State last year and attracted 32.5 million overnight visitors, who stayed 180 million nights.

“Most importantly, tourism is one of our biggest employers, supporting more than 171,000 direct jobs and injecting vital funds straight back into our economy.”

Twenty eight Award winners were announced in a range of categories including Major Tourist Attractions, Festivals and Events, Destination Marketing and Accommodation.

Destination NSW Chief Executive Officer Sandra Chipchase said Destination NSW is proud to support the NSW Tourism Awards.

“Awards such as these provide a valuable platform to encourage businesses to consistently strive for excellence in their respective fields and last night was a wonderful testament to the ongoing strength of the NSW tourism industry,” Ms Chipchase said.

“The Awards highlight the diversity and strength of attractions and experiences in NSW and the vital role industry plays in making sure visitors enjoy their stay, tell others and return year after year.”

 

2016 WINNERS

 

Major Tourist Attractions

BridgeClimb Sydney

 

Tourist Attractions

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

 

Major Festivals and Events

Byron Bay Bluesfest

 

Festivals and Events

Parkes Elvis Festival

 

Ecotourism

Byron Bay Eco Cruises & Kayaks

 

Cultural Tourism

Nundle Woollen Mill

 

Qantas Award for Excellence in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism

Sand Dune Adventures

 

Specialised Tourism Services

Ask Roz

 

Visitor Information Services

Southern Highlands Welcome Centre

 

Business Event Venue

Château Élan at The Vintage

 

Major Tour and Transport Operators

AAT Kings New South Wales

 

Tour and Transport Operators

Beyond Ballooning

 

Adventure Tourism

Let's Go Surfing Australia

 

Destination Marketing

Reset your senses in Mudgee Region

 

Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services

Cupitt's Kitchen

 

Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries

Cupitt's Winery and Brewery

 

Caravan and Holiday Parks

BIG4 Deniliquin Holiday Park

 

Hosted Accommodation

Eldee Station

 

Unique Accommodation

Taronga Western Plains Zoo

 

Self Contained Accommodation

Lilypad Luxury Cabins

 

Standard Accommodation

Moama on Murray Resort

 

Deluxe Accommodation

The Observatory Port Macquarie

 

Luxury Accommodation

The Darling Hotel

 

New Tourism Business

Rees International

 

Excellence in Food Tourism

Margan Wines & Restaurant

 

Tourism Education and Training

TEACH at Wollongbar TAFE

 

Outstanding Contribution by an Individual

Cameron Arnold

 

People's Choice

Australian Reptile Park