Mackay’s Wildcat Adventures has been named Queensland’s best new tourism business at last Friday’s 2022 Queensland Tourism Awards.
Launched in December 2021 at the height of the Omicron wave, Wildcat Mackay has achieved incredible success in its first year of operation.
Owner Julie Telford said she was extremely proud to accept the award.
“To launch a business at the height of COVID-19 seemed crazy, but we knew we had a solid plan, an innovative boat design and a spectacular place to show visitors,” Mrs Telford said.
“We operate a successful business in the Whitsundays but could see an opportunity for a new business venture just a couple hours south in Mackay.
“This award provides an opportunity to thank every single customer for booking on our awesome tours.”
Owner Asher Telford and his innovative naval architecture team custom-designed and built a vessel to suit Mackay’s marine conditions.
“We’ve been able to design a boat that keeps visitors comfortable while also moving through the water quickly to show visitors as much as possible in one day,” Mr Telford said.
“It has been pivotal to our business success to design boats that make the most of local conditions. As a result, wildcat offers a smooth ride, 360-degree viewing platform, easy access electric stairs, wheelchair access and lock-in points, fully licensed bar, paddleboards, solar charging system and is extremely fuel efficient.
“It was a dream to start a new business in Mackay and show off this spectacular part of the Great Barrier Reef, and to accept a Gold Queensland Tourism Award is the best reward for that risk.”
Wildcat Mackay offers immersive learning tours, school group excursions, sunset tours, private charters and daily day tours taking visitors snorkelling, paddleboarding and showcasing the Great Barrier Reef.
The business holds the highest level of ECO accreditation and are proud Climate Action Leaders.
Al Grundy, Chief Executive Officer of Mackay Isaac Tourism, said the region is excited about Wildcats future.
“Winning the Gold Award for best New Tourism Business is a credit to Julie and Asher Telford who have brought a clear vision to this region and who deliver exceptional experiences to our visitors every day,” Mr Grundy said.
“It’s a distinct advantage for our region to be home to one of Queensland’s best, and I congratulate Julie, Asher and their team on this achievement.”
Wildcat Mackay is now in the running for Best New Tourism Business at the upcoming Australian Tourism Awards in Sydney in March 2023.
Wildcat Adventures owners Julie and Asher Telford with their gold award in the Best New Tourism Business category at the 2022 Queensland Tourism Awards
Wildcat Mackay offers immersive learning tours and school group excursions among its other adventure tours
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