Queensland’s top tourism businesses were named at the 41st Queensland Tourism Awards on 7 November and Hinkler Hall of Aviation was among them.
The Bundaberg Regional Council facility, which commemorates and shares the life and achievements of Bundaberg pioneer aviator Bert Hinkler, took out bronze in the Cultural Tourism category.
The Cultural Tourism award recognises businesses that foster a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history and heritage.
The museum was in good company with other local tourism facility operators also taking out awards including Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort which won silver in the The Steve Irwin Award for Ecotourism and the Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience which secured bronze in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries section.
Bundaberg Region Mayor Helen Blackburn said it was a fantastic result showcasing the high quality tourism experiences and facilities within the local area.
“Congratulations to all of our local facilities and experiences recognised at the 41st Queensland Tourism Awards, “ Mayor Blackburn said.
“These results are evidence of our strong and thriving tourism industry.
“Council is proud to help preserve and promote the achievements of Bert Hinkler through the Hinkler Hall of Aviation and it is very rewarding for our hardworking and dedicated team to achieve this recognition.”
The Awards, delivered by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) with Queensland Airports Limited as Presenting Partner and Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation and Tourism and Events Queensland as Principal Partners, follow months of mentoring, benchmarking and independent assessment.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the winners had set the standard Queensland would need to meet as the world turned its attention to the State ahead of Brisbane 2032.
“These businesses have earned their place among the best in the country,” Ms Wheeler said.
“They have looked hard at every part of their operation, invested in their people and lifted the experience for every visitor who walks through their door.
“That is what builds Queensland’s reputation, one great experience at a time.”
Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell MP said Queensland’s tourism success was built on the operators who created the experiences visitors remembered long after their holiday ended.
“These awards recognise the people, businesses and communities that make Queensland such a special place to visit,” Minister Powell said.
“Our tourism operators are the face of Queensland for millions of visitors each year.”
The Queensland Tourism Awards are proudly supported by the Queensland Government and Tourism and Events Queensland.
Bundaberg Regional Council recognises the work and contribution of the Hinkler House Memorial Museum and Research Association Inc.
