AustrAliAn tourism’s night of nights

2015 was a record-breaking year for the Australian tourism industry and a perfect backdrop to the Qantas Australian tourism Awards, held on friday 5 february 2016. more than 850 industry leaders and operators converged on the melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre for a gala ceremony held in honour of excellence among the nation’s tourism providers. tV personality, natarsha Belling, reprised her role as the evening’s host, joined by Australian actor and musician, hugh sheridan. Entertainment featured throughout the evening, with a final performance by Kate Ceberano. other notable guests included the minister for tourism and international Education, senator the hon richard Colbeck, and Victorian minister for tourism and major Events, the hon John Eren. Signature was also present at the celebrations as the sponsor for the ‘unique Accommodation’ award, taken out this year by taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo for its new and luxurious Zoofari lodge. Victoria took home 10 of the 26 awards, while geoff mcgeary oAm, founder of APt, was honoured as the 2015 Australian tourism legend for his extraordinary personal contribution to the industry. www.australiantourismawards.com.au