In a mammoth night of big wins and excited thrills, the team behind Bowen Tourism and Business were able to leave the night with three awards and a special finalist mention.
“It was absolutely spectacular, and we were thrilled to share the feelings with our team who were able to join in the excitement on the night,” said Leanne Abernethy, Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business.
“It was particularly special to have our fantastic volunteers acknowledged, that was a big highlight of the evening. We were very proud to come home with two gold, one silver, and be a finalist as well.”
Collecting three awards and one finalist position, almost all aspects of the business were recognised, with The Big Mango winning Silver for Tourist Attraction, Gold for the category of Visitor Information Services, Gold for Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group, and being highlighted a finalist for Tourism Marketing and Campaigns, for the Big Mango 21st birthday takeover in June.
“It is a real team effort, with us, from volunteers and the business team. I feel very privileged to work with such a wonderful team and a supportive community,” said Leanne.
“Together we have been able to grow the business by implementing changes. In the past financial year, we have had a record number of visitors come through our Visitor Information Centre, and it was an exciting year for volunteers and the business with the 21st birthday of the Big Mango, which reached over four million people as part of our big marketing campaign.
“We always strive to ensure an excellent visitor experience for everyone coming through Bowen and the greater Whitsunday region.”
Chair of Bowen Tourism and Business, Jenn Honnery, was proud of the achievements of Bowen Tourism and Business.
“We felt very proud to receive a number of awards at the Whitsundays Tourism Awards. Taking gold in both Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer Group and Visitor Information Services recognises the tireless contribution of our volunteers and staff,” she said.
“The passion they show for Bowen cannot be underestimated and their excellence in customer service and dedication to the organisation is to be congratulated.
“We have 18 volunteers at the Big Mango Information Centre and Front Beach Info Booth, each one bringing a lifetime of unique skills to support our services, we really couldn’t run without them! Our team of staff are the backbone of Bowen Tourism and Business, outperforming KPIs, increasing our services and welcoming a record number of visitors year on year.
“I’d like to personally congratulate every member of our team, both volunteer and staff, for this amazing achievement,” she said.
