For the second year running, Port Douglas and the Tropical North is represented in this year’s prestigious 2010 Australian Event Awards that were announced yesterday with Flames of the Forest named one of three finalists in Spice Best Venue category.

Natalie Johnson, Flames of the Forest Sales Manager for Business, Events and Leisure said the team was thrilled to learn the good news.  “I feel that we have already won!  To be selected for the second year running and be vying for the title against such amazing venues as Doltone House Darling Island Wharf and Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre speaks volumes".

“In 2008 Flames of the Forest moved to a much bigger and more versatile rainforest venue - add to this the hard work and dedication of our team and news like this pays everyone back in spades.”

Natalie and owner, Amelia Hannaford will attend the national awards in Sydney on October 7.

Building on the high calibre of winners and finalists from 2009, the co-chairs of the judges Johnny Allen and Sandy Hollway said that the quality and creativity of entries was outstanding and that events were particularly rewarded for innovation in event techniques, ideas and practices across all categories.

Flames of the Forest is continually evolving and improving its ‘experience’ and operation and earlier this year, announced it had established a reduced carbon footprint.

According to Natalie, the stunning events and dining venue had introduced environmentally friendly LED lights to further enhance the special effects of an evening of entertainment in the Tropical North Queensland rainforest.  “State-of-the-art lights have been installed in the black silk-lined ceiling allowing the creation of a range of looks to suit client requirements. The new system uses 30 per cent less power and is included in the venue hire so there are no extra charges for lighting,” she said.

“Seven new custom-made crystal bud light and glowing orb chandeliers complement the lighting, creating an unmatched elegance in off-site events. Combined with thousands of twinkling bud lights these create a look reminiscent of the night sky with planets and stars.”  

Ms Johnson said Flames was also delighted to introduce three custom designed and locally manufactured bi-ethanol flaming vessels which were clean burning with no fumes.  “This renewable fuel has allowed us to bring the flames closer to the marquee to enhance the magic of the rainforest, at the same time lowering our carbon footprint,” she said.

“Combined with the roll-out of low voltage lighting to the surrounding rainforest, a solar hot water system for the kitchens and our continuing commitment to the One Person, One Tree, One World tree planting program, Flames of the Forest offers a true environmentally positive experience to clients.”

Tucked away in a fairytale pocket of rainforest, Flames of the Forest has a banquet seating capacity of 900 with all the infrastructure and comfort clients need, but with the magic only an off-site event can provide.

Since 2003, Flames of the Forest has gained an international reputation for its rainforest experience which combines a magnificent six course banquet dinner in a spectacular candlelit setting with a traditional and authentic Aboriginal performance featuring story telling, music and song from brothers who spent their childhood in the surrounding valley.

Flames of the Forest has won awards for its innovation and cuisine including being a finalist in the 2009 Australian Event Awards and recently was listed in Australian Traveller Magazine as one of the 'Top 100 Things to do in Australia….that you’ve never heard of!’.

Flames of the Forest is an enchanting and dramatic venue for group entertaining including weddings and corporate groups.  Every event is different but features the same stunning rainforest setting as its backdrop.  Recent clients have included Toyota, which featured Flames of the Forest with the addition of a performance by Leo Sayer as the finale event of its new Landcruiser launch.

Just 15 minutes from Port Douglas, 40 minutes from Palm Cove and one hour from Cairns, Flames of the Forest is a world away from the everyday.