Today, Botanica World Discoveries founder Judy Vanrenen was awarded The Order of Australia (OAM) in the General Division for service to Tourism.
Announced by the Governor-General as part of the 2019 Australia Day Honours List, established in 1975 by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, The Order of Australia is the principal means of recognising outstanding members of the community at a national level.
Judy has had a lifelong passion for gardening and travel which eventuated in the founding of Botanica World Discoveries, now celebrating 19 years in business, offering guided tours across six of the seven continents. No small feat while raising a family, writing two books, managing a farm and personal show garden.
Additionally, volunteering with numerous non-profit organisations including the Small Business Mentoring Services, coaching small business operators who had dreams of setting up tourist ventures themselves; and sitting on the Grampians Tourism Council after numerous years volunteering with the local tourism authority. Judy continues to give her time to causes close to her heart.
“Judy’s success has come about due to the basics of hard work, passion, determination and drive backed by a strong entrepreneurial spirit combined with her attention to detail and organisation that has made Botanica the leading garden-themed company in Australasia today,” explained Geoff McGeary, APT Founder and Company Owner.
Commenting on the award, Judy said “It is an honour and I am very humbled. I think most importantly, this gives a strong message to future generations that anything is possible if you have a dream and are prepared to work hard for it.”
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