Two regional South Australian tourism operators have walked away with gold medals at last Friday night’s Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
For the second year running, luxury accommodation provider The Frames in the Riverland was crowned Australia’s best Self Contained Accommodation, while Hahndorf’s Adelaide Hills Convention Centre was named best Business Event Venue.
The Qantas-sponsored awards, announced on Friday February 23 in Perth, recognised the best in the business from around the country.
Built in 2014 in Paringa by husband and wife duo Rick and Cathy Edmonds, The Frames offers three private retreats perched on cliffs overlooking magnificent views of the Murray River.
Luxury accommodation exists not only in big cities, but in SA’s regions too.
The couple aims to raise awareness of the Murray River and the emerging boutique wine and craft product culture in the Riverland, SA’s food bowl region.
“To be recognised among the best tourism offerings in Australia is wonderful and we are proud of the opportunity to showcase the Riverland to international and domestic guests,” Cathy says.
“We wish to thank everyone for their continued support, especially our guests who are seeking secluded space to relax and reconnect.”
The Adelaide Hills Convention centre is a popular spot for business events and functions, weddings, birthdays and other celebrations.
Hahndorf family the Schirripa’s and the team at the Adelaide Hills Convention Centre also celebrated a gold medal win for Business Event Venue.
The convention centre was recognised for its “world-class business event facilities and services” and for its scenic views overlooking the Hills.
Aside from the function centre, the Mt Barker Road location is also home to the Three Gums Bistro and Hahndorf Resort Tourist Park, featuring a caravan park and a range of other accommodation options.
The convention centre overlooks stunning views of the Adelaide Hills.
Eight other SA tourism operators from across the state walked away with silver and bronze medals.
SA Tourism Industry Council CEO Shaun de Bruyn says South Australians should be “extremely proud” of the world-class experiences we have on offer.
“The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognise the best of the best in tourism within Australia and set the benchmarks for the best business practice which all tourism business(es) should aspire to achieve,” he says.
“For SA to be awarded ten medals is a fantastic result and will further ensure our brilliant visitor experiences and magnificent regions remain on the tourism map.”
State Tourism Minister Leon Bignell says SA’s visitor economy has increased by 29% in the past four years to a record $6.3 billion, reflective of tourism operators’ dedication and passion for the industry.
Nominations for the 2018 SA Tourism Awards are open until June 25. For more information click here.
Silver award winners:
- Calypso Star Charters (Port Lincoln) – Tourist Attractions
- Murray River Walk (Renmark) – Ecotourism
- Yondah Beach House (Foul Bay) – Deluxe Accommodation
Bronze award winners:
- Santos Tour Down Under – Major Festivals and Events
- Calypso Star Charters (Port Lincoln) – Adventure Tourism
- Mulberry Lodge Country Retreat (Willunga) – Hosted Accommodation
- Marree Hotel (Marree) – Standard Accommodation
- Barossa Valley Cheese Company (Angaston) – Excellence in Food Tourism
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South Australian News 