Kingscliff tourism company recognised

Small business wins major tourism award.

Tania Usher from Blue Ginger Picnics, displays her silver award from the recent Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. Picture: Scott Davis

A KINGSCLIFF tourism company has been recognised with silverware at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.

Blue Ginger Picnics won Silver for New Tourism Business despite being the only small business in the category, making founder Tania Usher's dream come true.

"It's a bit of a dream,” she said.

"The award belongs to the people because we focus so much on supporting locals.

"I was surprised to win because the category had such huge competition, with so many big companies including Peppers and Optus, it made me feel proud for our local small businesses and made me realise we can play among the big players.”

Ms Usher said the judges commented on the business' plastic-free policy and collaboration with community, which included a cookbook that showcased the area with recipes from famous Kingscliff restaurants.

The book is available to download for free online from the Blue Ginger Picnics website.

Tania Usher from Blue Ginger Picnics, displays her silver award from the recent Qantas Australia Tourism Awards. Picture: Scott Davis

Ms Usher said her tourism venture showcased the Tweed's individuality by creating elegant outdoor dining experiences that told the story of the region's stunning locations, rich indigenous and historical culture, local businesses and delicious fresh produce.

Australian Tourism Awards chairman Daniel Gschwind congratulated Blue Ginger Picnics and the other finalists from across Australia.

"To reach the finalists stage of the Australian Tourism Awards is a great honour in itself,” he said.

"The winners truly are the best of the best, with a lot of strong competition across all categories.”

To download the Blue Ginger Picnic cookbook visit www.bluegingerpicnics.com.