Canberra’s tourism industry celebrates the best of the best


Released 29/11/2024

ACT Government venues have been recognised for their contribution to the visitor economy at this year’s Canberra Region Tourism Awards.

The National Arboretum Canberra took home two awards this year, winning the Ecotourism category and Excellence in Accessible Tourism.

The Arboretum – now in its eleventh year – continues to be a standout in the national tourism landscape, offering a sustainable and accessible venue that is cared for by a passionate group of people.

The Canberra Region Visitor’s Centre (CRVC) was again recognised for its exceptional visitor experience, taking out the Visitor Information Services category.

“This award is greatly deserved and a testament to the immense contribution VisitCanberra’s Jackie Mckeown made to the local tourism industry as Director of the CRVC. Jackie tragically died recently but it is clear her incredible contribution to tourism and our community will endure,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.

“Canberra’s tourism industry continues to showcase the best of what the ACT has to offer, and finds new ways to attract people to our city.”

Chief Minister Barr said whether it’s Questacon, the NCA’s Drone Sky Show, Pop Canberra or Jamala Wildlife Lodge, our tourism offering is diverse, and plays to our city’s strengths.

“Thank you to the Canberra Region Tourism Industry Council for another wonderful event, and congratulations to all the winners announced tonight. Good luck to all those who will represent our region at the Australian Tourism Awards next year,” he said.

Canberra Region Tourism Awards 2024 Results

1. Major Tourist Attractions - Questacon - The National Science and Technology Centre 
2. Major Tourist Attractions - National Zoo & Aquarium (Highly Commended)
3. Tourist Attractions - National Dinosaur Museum 
4. Major Festivals & Events - FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow - National Capital Authority 
5. Major Festivals & Events - National Museum of Australia - Discovering Ancient Egypt Exhibition (Highly Commended)
6. Ecotourism - National Arboretum Canberra 
7. Cultural Tourism - Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House 
8. Cultural Tourism - Royal Australian Mint (Highly Commended)
9. Tourism Retail, Hire & Services - Pop Canberra 
10. Tourism Retail, Hire & Services - The Museum Shop at the National Museum of Australia (Highly Commended)
11. Visitor Information Services - Canberra and Region Visitors Centre 
12. Business Event Venues - Hotel Realm 
13. Adventure Tourism - Corin Forest  (Highly Commended)
14. Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries - Tallagandra Hill Winery (Commendation)
15. Caravan & Holiday Parks - Alivio Tourist Park Canberra 
16. Unique Accommodation - Jamala Wildlife Lodge 
17. 3-3.5 Star Accommodation - The Y Leumeah Lodge (Commendation)
18. 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation - Midnight Hotel Autograph Collection 
19. 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation - Burbury Hotel (Highly Commended)
20. New Tourism Business - Canberra Festival of Speed (Commendation)
21. Excellence in Food Tourism - Murrumbateman Chocolate Co (Highly Commended)
22. Excellence in Food Tourism - Local Village Markets 
23. Excellence in Accessible Tourism - National Arboretum Canberra

Local Individual Awards

1. Natasha Watson Women in Tourism Award - Roslyn Hull (Winner)
2. Outstanding Contribution by an Individual - David Mac Laren OAM – Bungendore Woodworks (Winner)

- Statement ends -

Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases


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