The 2023 Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards recently shone a spotlight on the outstanding accomplishments of local tourism operators, underlining their essential role in the region's economy. This prestigious event unfolded at the Mackay Entertainment & Convention Centre (MECC) with 172 attendees representing the region's tourism businesses and industry stakeholders.
Mackay Regional Council Deputy Mayor, Karen May, emphasised the importance of these awards in acknowledging those who continually elevate the local tourism industry and excel in a competitive field.
"All of the winners and finalists at this year’s awards are a fantastic example of the exceptional tourism experiences offered in our region," she said.
These businesses contribute to the community's growth by attracting investment, fostering sustainability, creating jobs, and enhancing the overall quality of life in the region.
In a year marked by tourism success, the Mackay Isaac Region saw record levels of domestic travel and an upsurge in business and events tourism. The Isaac Regional Council Mayor, Anne Baker, highlighted the awards' role in setting local tourism operators apart and boosting their profiles, helping attract more domestic and international visitors.
Al Grundy, the CEO of Mackay Isaac Tourism, extended his congratulations to the winners, praising the awards' significance in recognising commitment to tourism excellence and celebrating the remarkable achievements of businesses and individuals throughout the region. Grundy noted that these dedicated businesses and individuals have positioned tourism as a vital economic driver in the Mackay Isaac Region, bringing in substantial investments and generating numerous job opportunities.
Best of Queensland Tour
GOLD: Wildcat Mackay
SILVER: Sarina Sugar Shed
Best of Queensland Food & Dining
GOLD: The Flackyard
SILVER: Sarina Sugar Shed Café
Best of Queensland Camping & Caravan Accommodation
GOLD: Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park
SILVER: Discovery Parks Mackay
Best of Queensland Hotel & Motel Accommodation
GOLD: Ocean International
SILVER: Shamrock Gardens Motel
Festivals and Events
GOLD: St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend
Retail, Hire and Services
GOLD: Mt Pleasant Centre
Business Event Venues
GOLD: MECC
SILVER: Windmill Motel & Events Centre
Tour and Transport Operators
GOLD: Oh Deere Farm Tours
SILVER: Bush Heli Services
Restaurants and Catering Services
GOLD: Moss on Wood
Standard Accommodation
GOLD: Comfort Resort Blue Pacific
Deluxe Accommodation
GOLD: Rydges Mackay Suites
SILVER: Country Roads Motor Inn Dysart
Excellence in Food Tourism
GOLD: Sarina Sugar Shed
SILVER: The Flackyard
Mackay Isaac Tourism Service Recognition Award
GOLD: Murray Gibbs
Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer or Volunteer Group
GOLD: Friends of the MECC
Outstanding Contribution by an Individual
GOLD: Amanda Pelagalli
People's Choice Awards
GOLD: Shamrock Hotel
SILVER: Oh Deere Farm Stays
Sarina Sugar Shed
Wildcat Mackay
The Flackyard
Mt Pleasant Centre
Comfort Resort Blue Pacific
MECC
Murray Gibbs
Amanda Pelagalli
