Image credit: Adelaide Fringe
South Australia has emerged as a shining star at the recent Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, with ten exceptional tourism businesses claiming top honours on the national stage. The prestigious event, hosted by Qantas, celebrates excellence across 26 categories, recognising the best in the nation’s tourism industry.
Adelaide Fringe, a powerhouse for SA’s art scene, clinched gold for Excellence in Accessible Tourism, reinforcing the state’s reputation as a leader in inclusive travel experiences.
Among the stars of the evening was the iconic Beach Huts Middleton on the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula, claiming gold in the 4 – 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation category.
Regional businesses also basked in the spotlight, with Bendleby Ranges and Seppeltsfield Wines securing silver for Adventure Tourism and Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries respectively. Meanwhile, the charming Ibis Adelaide was honored with a silver medal for its exceptional 3-3.5 Star Accommodation.
Bronze medals adorned the achievements of d’Arenberg, Port Lincoln Visitor Information Centre, Woodhouse Adventure Park, Port River Cruises, and Adelaide Showground Farmers’ Market, highlighting the diversity and innovation within South Australia’s tourism landscape.
It was also unveiled that Adelaide will host city for the 2024 Australian Tourism Awards, in March next year. Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, expressed excitement at the prospect of showcasing South Australia’s charms during the festival season.
“The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards will provide a fantastic opportunity to showcase our state to the best of our nation’s tourism industry, right in the thick of festival season, with world-class events like the Adelaide Fringe, Adelaide Festival and WOMADelaide in full swing,” she said.
Shaun de Bruyn, Chairperson of the Australian Tourism Awards, commended South Australia’s tourism operators for their unwavering commitment to excellence.
“It is always a proud moment to witness tourism operators from South Australia being recognised for their outstanding commitment to excellence in their businesses and our state’s tourism industry more broadly,” he said.
“Since the introduction of an accessible tourism category in our state-based awards in 2018, South Australian tourism operators have been exemplary in embracing accessible tourism practices, setting a benchmark for the industry. This commitment to inclusivity has not only created more opportunities for people with diverse abilities to experience South Australia but has also positioned the state as a leader in driving positive change,” Mr de Bruyn continued.
“To have Adelaide Fringe, so loved by South Australians, held up as the nation’s best accessible tourism experience is especially satisfying.”
For the full list of winners, click here.
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