Tourism operators in the Shoalhaven have scooped several prestigious industry awards over the weekend, highlighting the sector’s important contribution to the local economy.
Six local businesses including a brewery, holiday park, winery and three accommodation providers won Gold, Silver and Broze in their respective categories at the NSW Tourism Association Awards in Sydney on Friday.
Of the 78 winners announced on the night, six Shoalhaven businesses took home a gong.
- Jervis Bay Brewing Co. – Gold for Tourism Breweries & Distilleries
- Mt Hay Retreat – Gold for 5-star accommodation
- Cupitt’s Estate – Silver for Tourism Wineries
- Amaroo Valley Springs – Silver for Hosted Accommodation
- Holiday Haven Lake Tabourie – Bronze for Holiday Parks
- The Drawing Rooms of Berry – Bronze for Self-contained Accommodation
Gold winners will go onto compete at the 2025 Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Fremantle, Western Australia in March next year.
Mayor Patricia White said she was proud of how well our Shoalhaven businesses performed at the NSW Tourism Associations annual awards as well as our South Coast and Southern Highlands neighbours, who are all part of the Destination Sydney Surrounds South Network.
“I’d like to congratulate each and every one of our local tourism businesses for their ongoing dedication to ensuring visitors to our region have exceptional experiences,” Cr White said.
“Tourism accounts for over 5000 jobs in the Shoalhaven and brings in more than $1.5 billion to our economy per year. We know that figure is likely to grow with opportunities arising from the Western Sydney Airport and a possible cruise ship terminal at Port Kembla,” she said.
“These awards showcase just how incredible our offering is for visitors and locals, and I hope it will act as a timely reminder for us all to support local businesses this Christmas,” she said.
There was a record number of entrants at this year’s awards across 30 categories which celebrated excellence in business practices, visitor experiences and sustainability.
Earlier this year, two Shoalhaven Holiday Parks were recognised at the Caravan and Camping Industry Association (CCIA NSW) Awards of Excellence.
Tasman Holiday Parks at Racecourse Beach won NSW Holiday Park of the Year while Council’s Holiday Haven Lake Conjola took home Silver in the same category.
For more information about places to eat, stay and play in the Shoalhaven visit Council’s Shoalhaven Tourism website.
