Tourism’s big night lures Star

THE Queensland Tourism Awards are on the move — to the Gold Coast.

Hosted by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the awards will be held on the Coast for the first time in their 34-year history, at The Star Gold Coast on November 16.

QTIC chief executive Daniel Gschwind said 2017 was a stellar year for tourism — particularly on the Coast.

“Gold Coast tourism operators continue to make a huge contribution to the industry in the state, drawing more than five million domestic and international visitors annually and contributing $5 billion to the gross regional product,” QTIC chief executive Daniel Gschwind said.

The Gold Coast region collected two gold awards, three silver and a bronze at last year’s gala ceremony for 900 guests at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The awards will recognise achievements, events, individuals and operators in the tourism sector across 28 categories.

The Star Entertainment Group Queensland managing director Geoff Hogg said the Coast and The Star were a perfect fit for the awards.

“With tourism a key driver of the Gold Coast, it is only fitting the event has moved south to our coastal city.”

Queensland Airports Limited CEO Chris Mills urged local tourism operators to nominate for the awards.

“Our airports help move people throughout Queensland, but it’s the great tourism experiences that bring them here and make them want to come back,” he said.

The public will be able to vote for their favourite tourism experience, service or provider in August as part of the People’s Choice Award.

Award nominations May 31. close