2023 Mackay Isaac Tourism Award winners | Full list
The top tourism operators who showcase the Mackay Isaac region to the world were celebrated at an awards night recognising their success. SEE THE WINNERS.
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The top tourism operators who showcase the Mackay Isaac region to the world were celebrated at an awards night recognising their success.
There were 25 winners across 17 categories announced during the 2023 Mackay Isaac Tourism Awards at the MECC on Friday night.
Mackay Regional Council deputy mayor Karen May said the awards were a nod to those who constantly raised the bar in a very competitive tourism industry.
“All of the winners and finalists at this year’s awards are a fantastic example of the exceptional tourism experiences offered in our region,” Mrs May said.
“It is these businesses that drive investment into our communities, supporting sustainability and job creation and building on the liveability of the region.
“We know we are the best place to live and work, and these businesses, through their commitment to building and developing tourism opportunities, are showcasing our region to the world.”
The awards follow record visitor numbers to the Mackay Isaac region with Isaac Regional Council mayor Anne Baker saying the Isaac was one of Australia’s “most dynamic places” for business with its “major resource, renewables and agricultural industries”.
“Our tourism industry is growing due to the dedication of people in our communities,” she said.
“Well done to all our winners and nominees.
“We value our partnerships with First Nations, community and government and we look forward to raising the bar for years to come.”
Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Al Grundy congratulated the winners who came out on top from 72 finalists.
“It is the dedication of businesses and individuals like those we have recognised tonight that has enabled tourism to firmly establish itself as a key economic pillar to the Mackay Isaac region’s economy, contributing millions of dollars in investment and creating thousands of jobs,” Mr Grundy said.
Full list of winners:
Best of Queensland Tour
Gold: Wildcat Mackay
Silver: Sarina Sugar Shed
Best of Queensland Food and Dining
Gold: The Flackyard
Silver: Sarina Sugar Shed Cafe
Best of Queensland Camping and Caravan Accommodation
Gold: Cape Hillsborough Nature Tourist Park
Silver: Discovery Parks — Mackay
Best of Queensland Hotel and Motel Accommodation
Gold: Ocean International
Silver: Shamrock Gardens Motel
Festivals and Events
Gold: St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend
Retail, Hire and Services
Gold: Mount Pleasant Centre
Business Event Venues
Gold: Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Silver: Windmill Motel and Events Centre
Tour and Transport Operators
Gold: Oh Deere Farm Tours
Silver: Bush Heli Services
Restaurants and Catering Services
Gold: Moss on Wood
Standard Accommodation
Gold: Comfort Resort Blue Pacific
Deluxe Accommodation
Gold: Rydges Mackay Suites
Silver: Country Roads Motor Inn Dysart
Excellence in Food Tourism
Gold: Sarina Sugar Shed
Silver: The Flackyard
Mackay Isaac Tourism Service Recognition Award
Gold: Murray Gibbs
Outstanding Contribution by a Volunteer of Volunteer Group
Gold: Friends of the Mackay Entertainment and Convention Centre
Outstanding Contribution by an Individual
Gold: Amanda Pelagalli
People’s Choice Awards
Gold: Shamrock Hotel
Silver: Oh Deere Farm Stays
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