A REDLANDS Coast tourism operator has taken out a national tourism award, with Bay Island Lifestyle winning Gold for Excellence in Accessible Tourism at Australia’s premier tourism industry awards.
Bay Island Lifestyle, based at the Raby Bay Foreshore in Cleveland, secured the top honour at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards held in Fremantle, Western Australia.
The win marks the company’s first national tourism award, placing the Redlands Coast operator among the best tourism businesses in the country.
Co-owners Karen Robertson and Ashley Scott said the recognition was a proud moment not just for the business, but for the broader island community that has supported the venture.
“To be recognised as the best in Australia in our category ‘Excellence in Accessible Tourism’ is something we are incredibly proud of,” they said.
“What started with a simple idea — that everyone should be able to experience the joy of being on the water — has grown into something far bigger than us.
“This award belongs to our amazing Bay Island community, supporters and partners who believed in what we are building.”
Bay Island Lifestyle was recognised for delivering inclusive water-based activities, using specialised, fit-for-purpose equipment to ensure people of all abilities can safely enjoy time on the water.
The business focuses on accessible experiences across the Southern Moreton Bay Islands, helping visitors explore the region’s marine environment and island lifestyle.
The founders said sharing the experience of being on the water with people of all abilities had always been the heart of the business.
“Being on the water is our happy place and creating aqua accessibility allows us to share that joy with every ability,” they said.
“From Moreton Bay to the national stage, this moment is for all of you.”
The awards, hosted by the Australian Tourism Council, recognise outstanding operators, attractions and visitor experiences from across Australia.
Queensland Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the results reflected the strength of the state’s tourism sector.
“A huge congratulations to all of our winners and nominees, your achievements showcase the very best of Queensland and made it a truly proud and successful night for our state,” Minister Powell said.
“Queensland’s outstanding performance shows the strength, creativity and resilience of our tourism operators who continue to deliver experiences that you can’t find anywhere else.
“These results are proof that Queensland truly is the Home of the Holiday and operators aren’t just lifting the bar, they’re setting it.”
Queensland Tourism Industry Council chief executive Natassia Wheeler said the national awards were the pinnacle of recognition for the industry.
“The Australian Tourism Awards are the pinnacle of recognition for our sector, and we congratulate every Queensland finalist and winner who represented our state so proudly on the national stage,” Ms Wheeler said.
“Queensland continues to set the benchmark for tourism excellence in Australia and achieving seven national Gold awards once again demonstrate the strength, diversity and professionalism of our industry.”
Industry figures also praised the Redlands Coast operator’s achievement.
Tourism industry professional Shannon Thwaites congratulated the team following the announcement.
“They did it! The team’s passion and commitment to accessible tourism at Bay Island Lifestyle shone brightly for Redlands Coast. A huge congratulations!” she said.
Queensland operators had a strong showing overall at the national awards.
Seven operators took home Gold, while silver awards went to Cairns Convention Centre in Business Event Venues and Fun Over 50 Holidays for Major Tour and Transport Operators.
Bronze awards were presented to Fun Over 50 Holidays for Ecotourism; the St George Region Explore Centre in Visitor Information Services and The Reef House Adults Retreat for 5 Star Luxury Accommodation.
