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.

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.”

Wildcat Mackay took out gold for the Best of Queensland Tour category at the 2023 Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards. Picture: Contributed

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.”

Comfort Resort Blue Pacific at Blacks Beach took out gold in the Standard Accommodation category at the 2023 Mackay Isaac Region Tourism Awards. Picture: Facebook

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

Sarina Sugar Shed. Picture: Contributed

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

St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend is a key event on the tourism calendar each year. Picture: Contributed

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

Oh Deere Farm Stay in Calen delights young visitors keen to learn about the rural lifestyle. Picture: Contributed

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

Rydges Mackay Suites on Gregory St in Mackay. Picture: Contributed

Deluxe Accommodation

Gold: Rydges Mackay Suites

Silver: Country Roads Motor Inn Dysart

The Flackyard in the Pioneer Valley offers fine dining experiences. Picture: Contributed

Excellence in Food Tourism

Gold: Sarina Sugar Shed

Silver: The Flackyard

Murray Gibbs has been recognised for his tourism service in the Mackay Isaac region. Picture: Contributed

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

Originally published as 2023 Mackay Isaac Tourism Award winners | Full list