Two of Bundaberg’s iconic tourism attractions have been honoured at the 2024 Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Queensland Tourism Awards, claiming three gold awards between them.
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort affirmed its status as one of the premier Great Barrier Reef destinations within the Bundaberg region, awarded gold in the Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism category for its genuine and unique marine ecotourism experience.
The Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience lived up to its name as a favourite destination among visitors to the region, taking home gold for the fourth year in a row in the Tourist Attractions category while also snagging gold for Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries.
Queensland Tourism Industry Council Chair Elsa D’Alessio said the awards highlight Bundaberg’s glowing reputation as a tourism destination.
“It’s fantastic to recognise two much-loved Queensland tourism attractions in the Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort and Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience as part of this year’s Queensland Tourism Awards,” Ms D’Alessio said.
“The Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience has now won four gold awards in addition to a silver at the 2023 Australian Tourism Awards, reflecting the unique and authentically Queensland experience they offer visitors to the region.
“The region is well-known for its vibrant natural wildlife and connection to the Great Barrier Reef, as well as it’s abundant local produce and spirits – something that is reflected in this year’s award winners.
“It’s always wonderful to celebrate the tourism operators from this region in our annual awards and I strongly encourage other local tourism operators in Bundaberg and surrounds to consider nominating for an award next year.”
The workers and businesses behind these awards gathered at Brisbane’s The Star, Queen’s Wharf for a night of glamour, being recognised for their hard work in the Queensland tourism industry over the past year.
There were 31 award categories ranging from attractions, events, tour and transport operators, accommodation, restaurants, accessible tourism, culture and marketing.
Across the 31 categories, tourism operators were awarded 80 awards including 31 Gold, 25 Silver and 24 Bronze.
Select category winners will gain automatic entry into the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, which will celebrate its 40th Anniversary and will be held in Adelaide, South Australia on Friday 21 March 2025.
The 40th Queensland Tourism Awards will also take place next year in Brisbane on Friday 14 November 2025 at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.
