All corners of the outback were recognised for their contribution at Outback Queensland Tourism’s night of nights in Roma on Saturday.
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Cobbold Gorge received two awards for their excellence as a tourist attraction and hosted accommodation.
Three operators took home awards in the same category two years running, with Forsayth’s Goldfield Hotel picking up the Best Outback Pub, Julia Creek Visitor Information Centre receiving the Visitor Information and Services award, and Outback Aussie Tours taking home the Tour and Transport operator award.
General Manager of the Outback Queensland Tourism Association Peter Homan said he was pleased to see the members of the Outback Queensland tourism industry come together to support each other’s hard work and success.
“It was fantastic to see over 170 people travel to Roma to celebrate the industry over the three days of the 2018 Outback Queensland Tourism Awards and Symposium,” Mr Honan said.
“The outback tourism industry is constantly growing and it’s important to recognise those who are positively contributing to the industry day in and day out during the year.
Maranoa Regional Councillor Puddy Chandler, said her region was excited to host this year’s Outback Queensland Awards and Symposium.
“The Maranoa region was extremely proud to host so many members of the tourism industry in Roma,” Cr Chandler said.
“As part of Outback Queensland, we were honoured to host this year’s event and show everyone what the south-west has to offer.”
The top spot in the Festivals and Events category was awarded to Big Red Bash but the Mount Isa Rodeo was also given a special commendation.
Kronosaurus Korner volunteer Becky Kuhl received the Young Achiever award, while the Managing Director of the Big Red Bash, Greg Donovan, picked up the Outback Mates Award.
The Vince Evert Award was given to Rod Low Mow, owner and operator of Adels Grove.
Known for his favourite saying, ‘welcome to my backyard’, Rod’s passion for showing off Outback Queensland has grown stronger over the years, from being a member of the Savannah Guides to opening Adels Grove.
The 2017 Outback Queensland Tourism Awards Winners:
Category Winner
Major Tourist Attraction Qantas Museum
Tourist Attraction Cobbold Gorge
Festivals and Events Big Red Bash
Festivals and Events (special commendation) Mount Isa Rodeo
Cultural Tourism Outback Pioneers
Visitor Information & Services Julia Creek VIC
Tour & Transport Operators Outback Aussie Tours
Caravan & Holiday Parks Adels Grove
Hosted Accommodation Cobbold Village
Best Outback Pub Goldfield Hotel
Contribution Volunteer/Group Gail Wipaki
Young Achiever Becky Kuhl
New Tourism Business Waltzing Matilda Centre
Local Government Quilpie Shire Council
Outback Mates Award Greg Donovan
Vince Evert Award Rod Low Mow
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