Oodgeroo MP Amanda Stoker has praised the Redlands’ tourism industry after a Cleveland-based operator claimed national recognition at the Australian Tourism Awards.
Mrs Stoker said she was incredibly proud of local business Bay Island Lifestyle, which took home the Gold award for Excellence in Accessible Tourism at the national awards ceremony on Friday night.
“The Redlands is packed full of incredible tourism offerings, both on the mainland and on North Stradbroke Island,” said Mrs Stoker.
“But Bay Island Lifestyle is particularly special because of its commitment to making the outdoor and on-water experiences we enjoy available to people of all physical ability levels.
“They absolutely deserve this recognition on the national stage.”
Hosted by the Australian Tourism Council, the Australian Tourism Awards are the nation’s premier tourism industry accolades, recognising the best operators, attractions, experiences and destinations across the country.
Bay Island Lifestyle’s win was part of a strong showing for Queensland tourism operators, who secured seven gold, two silver and three bronze awards on the night.
The awards highlight what the State Government says is a growing tourism sector under its long-term Destination 2045 strategy, aimed at strengthening visitor experiences and delivering sustainable growth across Queensland.
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said the results reinforced Queensland’s reputation as the “Home of the Holiday.”
“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,” he said.
“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.”
Bay Island Lifestyle operates tours and outdoor experiences across the Redlands and Southern Moreton Bay Islands, focusing on making nature-based adventures accessible to people of all abilities.
