The spotlight was on Victoria’s leading tourism and events operators at this evening’s RACV Victorian Tourism Awards gala ceremony, with six winners entering the prestigious Hall of Fame.
Formula 1 2018 Rolex Australian Grand Prix, Holmesglen at Eildon, Auswalk, Cave Hill Creek, Royal Mail Hotel and Worn Gundidj at Tower Hill, all claimed Hall of Fame status after winning gold in the same category for three consecutive years, doubling the number of last year’s inductees.
Presented by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) for the fourth year, in partnership with Visit Victoria, the RACV Victorian Tourism Awards is the tourism and events industry’s night of nights, celebrating winners across 30 categories for their outstanding contributions to the industry.
In its 34th year, there were 121 submissions in 2018, with 82 business entries achieving a score of 75 per cent or above determining them as winners. Impressively, this is a ten per cent increase of a finalist result or above compared to 2017.
Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) Chief Executive Felicia Mariani said she was delighted to see the exceptional calibre of entrants in the 2018 awards and the countless examples of business excellence.
“It’s wonderful to see industry getting involved and an increased quality of submissions entered. This cements the fact that the attractions and experiences Victoria has to offer just keep getting better,” Ms Mariani said.
“In particular, entrants from the Great Ocean Road region should be commended as the leading region, claiming four golds and one silver out of their five entries.”
The Awards are delivered by VTIC, in collaboration with Visit Victoria, to ensure sector excellence is awarded to those that demonstrate business and marketing acumen.
Peter Bingeman, Chief Executive Office of Visit Victoria said, “Tonight, we acknowledge and celebrate the achievements of all finalists across regional and metropolitan areas of the State, who have significantly contributed to the rise of one of Victoria’s fastest growing sectors – tourism.
“All winners and finalists have demonstrated excellence in their ability to put the visitor at the heart of everything they do, to strengthen Victoria’s position as a leading global destination. We know this doesn’t come without significant hard-work and a meticulous understanding of the visitor journey. We thank them for their tireless contribution to improving the visitor economy.
“A special thanks to our friends at VTIC for their continued support in delivering the industry’s night of nights. Without doubt, each year the calibre of entrants grows from strength to strength.”
Three categories recognising individuals for their contributions to the industry were also awarded, including Professor Bryan King for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual, and Parks Victoria who took home the Outstanding Contribution by Volunteers award, also winning gold in the Specialised Tourism Services category for a second consecutive year.
“These Individual Awards provide a great platform to highlight the important work being carried out by members of the industry at all stages of their careers within the tourism and events sector. This category rightfully acknowledges the commitment of those leading the way in excellence, creativity and sustainability,” Ms Mariani said.
VTIC is proud to deliver an industry award program that recognises the outstanding work of operators across the State and celebrates the innovation and passion of the sector.
“We congratulate this year’s winners – Gold, Silver, Bronze and the Finalists in all categories,” Ms Mariani concluded.
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