A shining light in the annual event calendar, the Whitsunday Tourism Awards are a time for everyone in the tourism industry to connect, celebrate and recognise the dedication of all local businesses.
When Rick Hamilton became the CEO of Tourism Whitsundays two years ago, one of his first goals was to reinstate the annual awards that had been halted due to Covid.
“Everyone was struggling at the time,” he recalls.
“So, when the borders re-opened the first thing we wanted to do was re-introduce the Tourism Awards.
“They bring the community together and there are so many operators that are so busy in their working lives that sometimes they don’t really get a chance to celebrate as a community.
“The Tourism Awards offers them that opportunity.”
And while the Whitsunday Tourism Awards are a regional celebration, they also offer winners an avenue to grow, expand and been seen on a national playing field.
“Winning an award opens so many doors for people – not only from an awareness perspective but also when you get to the state and national level, it not only opens you up to a national audience and of course government funding,” explains Rick.
“When you’re looking at how you’re going to grow and expand your business – there are always government funds available – with an award you can get the attention of a lot of people in Brisbane.”
Rick says that the Tourism Awards are a “crowning moment of the year” and that he looks forward to celebrating with the broader industry.
“The winners go to state and national level, they help us carry the flag and we are very proud of that.”
