Tourism industry looking for its finest at Awards Night
8 July 2009

Members of the Central Australian tourism industry and the general public can now cast their votes for their favourite tourism operator or product, as nominations open this week for the 2009 Central Australian Tourism Industry Awards.

Now in its third year, the Awards recognise and reward excellence in the tourism industry, as well as provide an opportunity for local tourism operators to let their hair down at the end of a demanding tourist season.

“In the current economic climate our tourism industry is having to work extra hard to keep business at a sustainable level and the Awards night gives them time to smell the flowers and pat each other on the back”, says Tourism Central Australia Chairman Renton Kelly.

“We expect the event to sell out again this year as people have already begun to book out tables so Tourism Central Australia may have to increase seating space. Last year over 360 guests attended including representatives from our region’s gateways - Tennant Creek and Coober Pedy.”

Brendan Heenan, winner of the top award in 2008 - the Barry Bucholtz Award for Tourism Excellence says, “I was extremely proud to have been nominated by my peers and to win last year, and I urge Alice Springs residents to give similar recognition to other operators by getting a nomination in.”

Mr Heenan won the award for his continuous and outstanding contribution to the tourism industry over a period of 24 years.

Categories for nomination include Young Achiever, Industry Achiever, Primary Tourism Operator, Community Festivals and Events, New Tourism Innovation and the Barry Bucholtz Award for Excellence.

Funds will be raised for the local charity arm of Make-A-Wish Foundation, when prizes are drawn out of raffles and door prizes announced throughout the event.

“Tourism Central Australia will be auctioning a large range of local artwork, jewellery and tourism experiences, so we encourage all Awards night guests to bring plenty of extra cash for raffles and donations”, says Mr Kelly.

Local entertainers, including singer song writers and music show will entertain the crowd, and a surprise celebrity will host the night.

Nomination forms are available from www.centralaustraliantourism.com.au and close on 31 August 2009.

Ends……

For further information, interviews or images please contact Laurelle Halford, Creative Territory – 0417 222 211 or 8953 7919.