by Mat Churchill

The 12th TNQ Tourism Awards were held at the Cairns Convention Centre on Friday night where 420 members and guests attended a gala dinner.

Local winners included the Daintree Discovery Centre who took out the Ecotourism and Tourist Attractions categories, Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours in the Adventure Tourism Category (Calypso Reef Charters received a 'Judge's commendation' in this category), and the Australian Muster Experience for New Tourism Development.

Hartley's Crocodile Adventures took out the big one winning the Major Tourist Attractions award, and Australian Tourist Publications (ATP) who publish the 'Welcome to Port Douglas and Welcome to Daintree' magazines were inducted into the Hall of Fame.

Hartley's spokesperson, Angela Freeman, said the award reflects what the consumer can expect.

"It's very much a quality endorsement," she said. "We'll use it (the award) in our brochures, website, we'll get it out as far as we can."

On an individual level, Jonathon Voss from Sheraton Mirage Port Douglas won a Young Achiever's Award. This award recognises an individual, less than 30 years of age, working in the tourism industry and their contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional tourism industry.

"I was extremely grateful to be nominated by the Hotel, but I was certainly surprised to win on the night," he said. "I had no idea of how many nominations had been put forward for the award.
 
"I am very passionate about the industry and the products we have at the resort and the region of Far North Queensland makes it at great place to work."

Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree's executive officer Doug Ryan was pleased with the results.

"Nearly a third of winners are from our area," he said. "Winning a regional award is quite a big thing. It's an opportunity to promote themselves as winners (to their customers)."

Mr Ryan said the judging process was stringent. "It's an intense process. It's like a total business review and you're being judged by your peers."

TNQ Tourism Awards Judges:

Gary Young
Megan Bell – Quicksilver Group
Paul Fagg – DEEDI
Julie Johnston – RJ New Designs

Helen Laird – Cairns Airport Pty Ltd

Michael Linnan – Dept of Communities

Chris Northam – Sebel Reef House and Spa

Rod Punshon – Pro Dive

Gaye Scott – The 20/20 Group

Elmarie Gebler – Fortis One

Lloyd Smith – Cairns Coconut Holiday Resort
Peter Goulding