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Kangarutha Farm

Kangarutha Farm

by | Aug 19, 2025 | Case Study

Camping Accommodation
Yuin-Monaro Country / Kalaru,    NEW SOUTH WALES

From a 1960s cattle property to a modern eco-retreat, Kangarutha Farm values lasting sustainability.

Just minutes from the iconic beach town of Tathra and bordering the coastal Bournda National Park, Kangarutha Farm offers secluded camping and a unique nature-based venue surrounded by native forest, open paddocks and scenic dams. With a handful of tranquil campsites ideal for campfires and quiet connection to nature, Kangarutha is a place to unplug, recharge and immerse yourself in the environment. 

Kangarutha Farm was recently among the many businesses that used funding from Destination NSW to complete Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. In collaboration with Ecotourism Australia and Tourism Australia, Destination NSW provided eligible visitor economy businesses across the state with free access to this pre-certification tool. This initiative demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering operators to improve their sustainability practices, and importantly, to create the breathing space needed for small businesses to make sustainability a genuine operational priority. 

For co-founders Lisa and Tom Hamilton, the grant support made the decision to undertake the Scorecard much easier. 

“In a small business, every cost counts,” Lisa explained. “Especially when there’s uncertainty about whether we would ‘pass’ or not. Having the Destination NSW grant really helped with the decision-making.” 

Lisa shared that their motivation to complete the Scorecard stemmed from years of inspiration. 

“We have been interested in pursuing eco-tourism certifications for a while now, as we were inspired by other local eco-tourism businesses such as Navigate Expeditions and Tanja Lagoon Camp. We were finally spurred into action to undertake the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard because of our participation with the landmark Bega Circular Valley initiative, which is focused on transitioning the Bega Valley to a more circular economy.”  

Kangarutha Farm has been in Tom Hamilton’s family since the 1960s, with generations acting as custodians to protect its forested areas from development, preserve the property’s natural beauty, and establish a lasting legacy of environmental stewardship that reflects their deep connection to the land. In 2017, Tom and his partner Lisa returned to the farm to pursue their dream of creating an eco-tourism venture that honoured this legacy. Completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard provided them with more than just a benchmark – it offered a meaningful opportunity to reflect on their sustainability practices and chart a thoughtful path for the farm’s future. 

“Participation within the program allowed us to pause for a bit and really think about our business broadly – thinking about our environmental, social and cultural, and governance measures and impacts. It highlighted (even just to us) all the good things that we are doing that easily get lost in the chaos! Finally, it increased our focus on sustainability, and this will likely be reflected in our continual improvements to our business as we move forward. ” 

Completing the Scorecard also gave Kangarutha Farm a clearer pathway toward the future. 

“After going through the scorecard process, we have a much better sense of what is required for full certification, and so we feel that once we tick off a few sustainability objectives within the business, we can progress further with the certification!” 

For Kangarutha Farm, completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard wasn’t simply a compliance exercise – it was a chance to reaffirm their values, honour a multi-generational legacy of land stewardship and lay the foundations for their next chapter in sustainable tourism.  

Click here to learn more about Kangarutha Farm’s sustainable efforts, and book your stay: https://kangarutha.com.au/sustainability/

Kangarutha Farm completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 5 Aug 2025 and is a snapshot of their current sustainability practices. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.

Into The Wild Escapes

Into The Wild Escapes

by | Aug 12, 2025 | Case Study

Off-grid Accommodation
Australia

In a world that rarely slows down, Into The Wild Escapes creates sanctuaries where simplicity, serenity and sustainability go hand in hand.

 

Co-founded in 2017 by Celeste Giannas, Into The Wild Escapes emerged from a deep longing to reconnect – with loved ones, with nature and with the present moment. After experiencing the profound calm that came from stepping away from screens and immersing in the natural world, Celeste became fascinated by the science behind this shift. This curiosity led her to discover the concept of rewilding, a holistic approach to conservation that restores ecosystems and revives our connection with the natural world. Inspired by these insights, Into The Wild Escapes was born to offer restorative wellness retreats through a collection of 60 minimalist, eco-conscious tiny houses thoughtfully nestled across Australia’s most pristine and nature-rich landscapes. From secluded bushland to picturesque wineries and farms, each retreat is thoughtfully designed with premium features, catering to couples, families and even their four-legged friends.

 

Born from a deep appreciation of Australia’s regional landscapes, it’s no surprise that Into The Wild Escapes places environmental sustainability at the heart of its business. But now, with funding support from Destination New South Wales, the company has taken a significant first step on its sustainability journey by completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard.

 

“We saw the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard as a way to benchmark our business against national sustainability standards and identify where we could push further,” comments Senior Marketing Manager, Renee Kidd.

“Sustainability is core to how Into The Wild Escapes operates – from protecting nature on private land to supporting regional communities. The scorecard provided a structured, transparent way to evaluate our impact and guide future improvements.”

 

Built upon Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised certification standards, the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard offers businesses and tourism operators a comprehensive snapshot of their sustainability journey at a given moment. It enables organisations to assess their operations against 50 detailed criteria spanning four key pillars: Sustainable Management, Environmental Impacts, Socio-Economic Impacts and Cultural Impacts.

 

“It gave us a measurable, credible framework to assess and communicate our sustainability performance,” explains Kidd.

“Achieving an 80% score – including 95% for Environmental Impacts and 100% for both Sustainable Management and Socio-Economic Impacts – validated the work we’ve done to date. However, receiving 25% for Cultural Impacts highlighted an area we’re now actively focused on deepening.”

 

Delighted by their impressive results, Into The Wild Escapes are inspired to further advance their sustainability journey.

 

“The Scorecard process made it clear how close we are in many areas and outlined the path to Certification. For us, formal certification is the logical next step – not only to strengthen our credibility with guests and partners, but to ensure we stay accountable as we scale. Our ambition is to help lead the shift toward regenerative tourism in Australia, and Certification would be a powerful part of that journey.”

 

Into The Wild was among the many businesses that leveraged funding from Destination NSW to complete the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. In collaboration with Ecotourism Australia and Tourism Australia, Destination NSW provided eligible visitor economy businesses across the state with free access to this pre-certification tool. This initiative demonstrated a strong commitment to empowering businesses to improve their sustainability practices and create the space needed to make sustainability a genuine priority.

 

“[Completing the scorecard] had definitely been on our radar, but the Destination NSW grant was the catalyst that moved it from the “someday” list to a clear priority. Their support – both financial and in terms of guidance helped us dedicate the time and resources needed to complete the process properly. We’re incredibly glad we did. The scorecard has already become a valuable tool for tracking our progress and driving ongoing improvement.”

 

Looking ahead, Into The Wild Escapes is committed to building on this momentum by pursuing full certification and embedding sustainability even deeper into every aspect of their operations. As they continue to grow, their focus remains clear: to create meaningful connections between people and nature while championing regenerative tourism practices that protect and celebrate Australia’s unique landscapes and communities. With a strong foundation, clear goals and the support of key partners, Into The Wild Escapes is poised to lead the way in sustainable travel experiences – inviting guests not just to visit, but to truly belong in the wild.

 

Discover more about Into The Wild Escapes here.

 

Into The Wild Escapes completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 14 Jul 2025 and is a snapshot of their current sustainability practices. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.

Strengthening Sustainable Tourism in the Indian Ocean Territories

Strengthening Sustainable Tourism in the Indian Ocean Territories

by | Jul 22, 2025 | Article

Strengthening Sustainable Tourism in the Indian Ocean Territories  

Ecotourism Australia is proud to share the findings from a transformative project to support sustainable tourism in the Indian Ocean Territories (IOT), on both Christmas Island and the Cocos Keeling Islands. This ambitious initiative saw us partner with the University of Queensland and the Christmas Island Tourism Association, thanks to a Parks Australia grant, with the aim to build both local business capacity and community engagement to deliver sustainable tourism experiences.  

Central to our role was the delivery of the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard—a benchmarking tool designed to help tourism operators across the IOT assess, improve, and celebrate their sustainability practices. The Scorecard provided participating businesses with: 

  • A personalised assessment to identify strengths and opportunities 
  • Recognition for sustainability achievements 
  • Actionable insights for further progress on their sustainability journey.  

Participating businesses encompassed a broad range of operators, from accommodation providers and tour operators to restaurants, attractions, and visitor centres. Ecotourism Australia project lead Shea Wittig visited the IOT on three occasions to provide one-on-one coaching and group workshops to help support businesses on their sustainability journey. 

“It was such a privilege to be involved in this project and see the burgeoning tourism industry developing in such a unique part of Australia. From watching reef sharks and turtles ride the waves on Cocos Islands to experiencing the rich cultural diversity of Christmas Island, the highlights were unforgettable. Most of all, it was so rewarding to support the passionate local operators who make these islands so special.” Shea said. 

In addition to supporting operators complete the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, our team closely collaborated with the University of Queensland to ensure community voices shaped the future of tourism on Christmas Island. Key aspects included: 

  • Supporting a targeted research survey on residents’ attitudes and preferences 
  • Assisting in presenting findings at local industry forums and government meetings 
  • Amplifying local input by integrating community priorities into destination planning recommendations

Through this project, we advocated for the vision that nature-based tourism can underpin future prosperity in the IOT, especially as the region prepares for a post-mining future. The project’s key recommendations, which include a focus on robust destination planning, appointment of tourism experts in government, expanded support structures, and alignment with community aspirations, will ensure that tourism growth remains responsible and grounded in local values. 

 

Read the full report for further details on the project and Ecotourism Australia’s collaborative approach to sustainability in the IOT. 

Indian Ocean Territories Grant Report
Sydney Harbour Marriott Leads in Sustainability

Sydney Harbour Marriott Leads in Sustainability

by | Jul 16, 2025 | Media Release

Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel becomes first Sustainable Tourism Certified Marriott in Australia

 

Ecotourism Australia is delighted to announce that Sydney Harbour Marriott has met globally recognised sustainable tourism criteria to become the first Marriott International Hotel in Australia to achieve their prestigious Sustainable Tourism Certification.

This recognition by Ecotourism Australia highlights Sydney Harbour Marriott’s commitment to meeting best-practice standards across environmental, socio-economic, cultural and sustainable management principles. The hotel’s initiatives include ‘Serve 360, their sustainability and social impact platform guiding eco-conscious actions such as implementing energy efficiency systems, prioritising water conservation, and championing sustainable and local produce sourcing for menu items. Additionally, their ‘Connect Responsibly’ initiative allows their numerous event planners and attendees to meet sustainability objectives.

Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan applauded the exceptional commitment of Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel.

“Congratulations to Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay for taking this significant step on their sustainability journey. Their enthusiasm for and alignment to globally recognised sustainable tourism standards is a testament to their team and their commitment.

“We are proud to announce that Sydney Harbour Marriott is the first Marriott property to achieve our Sustainable Tourism Certification, and we look forward to working with Marriott to certify more of their Australian properties over the coming years.”

Sydney Harbour Marriott General Manager, Bernhard Langer, said achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification represents a significant step forward in the hotel’s ongoing journey towards sustainability and responsible tourism.

“Achieving Ecotourism Australia’s Sustainable Tourism Certification is a proud milestone for the Sydney Harbour Marriott Hotel at Circular Quay. Guided by Marriott’s Serve 360 Sustainability Program, we’ve embedded environmentally responsible practices across every aspect of our operations, from reducing energy and water consumption to improving waste management and building strong partnerships with our local community.

“This recognition reaffirms our commitment to minimising our environmental footprint as a hospitality leader, while continuing to deliver exceptional guest experiences as we work towards a more sustainable future.”

Achieving global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification is a meticulous process, involving over 200 key criteria across four pillars of sustainability. Certification involves an initial third-party audit, followed by periodic independent audits to maintain certification and demonstrate ongoing commitment to sustainability. Accommodation providers who have obtained Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia now have the option to add their certification to their Booking.com listing, making demonstrating sustainability credentials easier than ever.

 

END

 

Media contacts:

Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager
e: myv@ecotourism.org.au

ph: (07) 3256 6777

 

Sydney Harbour Marriott – Jayshree Sabhlok, Senior Manager – Brand, Marketing and Digital
e: Jayshree.Sabhlok@marriotthotels.com

 

About Ecotourism Australia

Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports Australia’s visitor economy through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. Our legacy program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program and the Sustainable Tourism Certification, launched in 2022 supports non-nature based businesses achieve global best-practice. Today there are some 2200 accommodation, tours and attractions certified by Ecotourism Australia.

 

About Marriott Hotels®

With about 600 hotels and resorts in over 70 countries and territories around the world, Marriott Hotels continues to elevate the art of hospitality – placing people first is the brand’s living legacy – ensuring guests always feel deeply cared for throughout their stay. Marriott Hotels raises the bar by consistently delivering heartfelt service, with modern, comfortable spaces, and by providing experiences elevated beyond the everyday. As global travelers needs and expectations evolve, so does Marriott Hotels, leading the industry with innovations including the Greatroom lobby and Mobile Guest Services that embrace style, design, and technology. For more information, please visit www.marriotthotels.com, and stay connected on Facebook, @marriott on X, and @marriotthotels on Instagram. Marriott Hotels is proud to participate in Marriott Bonvoy®, the global travel program from Marriott International. The program offers members an extraordinary portfolio of global brands, exclusive experiences on Marriott Bonvoy Moments, and unparalleled benefits including free nights and Elite status recognition. To enroll for free or for more information about the program, visit marriottbonvoy.com.

 

2025 Hall of Fame & Green Travel Leaders Announced

2025 Hall of Fame & Green Travel Leaders Announced

by | Jun 24, 2025 | Media Release

Eleven Leading Australian Tourism Businesses Inducted into Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame 

Eleven of Australia’s leading ecotourism operators have been inducted into Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame, recognised for maintaining ECO Certification for an extraordinary 20 years. These long-term leaders join 59 other businesses previously honoured for their consistent commitment to world-class sustainability standards. 

A further 13 operators were acknowledged as Green Travel Leaders, celebrating a decade of ECO Certification and their enduring contribution to responsible tourism. 

Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan, said the recognition not only celebrates longevity but highlights the values and integrity these operators have demonstrated year after year. 

“Being inducted into the Hall of Fame reflects a remarkable 20-year commitment to world-leading sustainability standards,” said Ms. Keenan. “As the organisation who developed the world’s first national eco certification program, we’re honoured to recognise those who have been with us on the journey since our early days.”  

She added that both Hall of Fame inductees and Green Travel Leaders embody the values that underpin Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs. 

“Our Green Travel Leaders have demonstrated a decade of passion and consistency. Their work continues to raise the bar in delivering tourism experiences that are environmentally responsible and culturally respectful.” 

For many operators, this milestone is deeply personal. Jason Cleverley, General Manager of Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu National Park, said the Hall of Fame recognition was a powerful affirmation of their work in one of Australia’s most culturally and environmentally significant landscapes. 

“This milestone means a great deal to us. It’s not just a marker of time but of consistent values. Operating in Kakadu, we carry the responsibility of not only preserving but amplifying the stories, ecosystems and heritage of this land. 

The Hall of Fame recognition reaffirms the deep partnerships we’ve built with Traditional Owners, our commitment to low-impact operations, and our investment in Indigenous-led cultural tourism. It’s something every team member past and present can take pride in.” 

For Sunlover Reef Cruises, operating in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, sustainability is not optional—it’s fundamental. André MacLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer, said their long-standing certification has been a cornerstone of their business model. 

“Operating in one of the world’s most iconic marine environments, Ecotourism Australia certification is not just a choice, it’s a responsibility. 

Being certified for over two decades has given us a significant competitive advantage. It signals to guests, industry partners, and the broader tourism community that we are a credible, trusted operator with a long-standing commitment to sustainability. 

This recognition strengthens our brand, builds trust with eco-conscious travellers, and opens doors to meaningful collaborations with scientists, educators, and conservation organisations. Perhaps most importantly, it keeps us accountable, ensuring we remain at the forefront of best practices, innovation, and continuous improvement in reef stewardship.” 

Echoing this sentiment, Michael Johnson, Founder and Director of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, emphasised the benefits of certification in both domestic and international markets. 

“Being a certified Ecotourism Australia operator for two decades has provided us with a trusted seal of quality and credibility. This has been especially advantageous in international markets, where visitors are increasingly seeking out authentic, environmentally responsible experiences.”  

This year’s Hall of Fame and Green Travel Leader inductees are not only champions of sustainability—they are shaping the future of tourism in Australia and beyond. All operators certified by Ecotourism Australia are featured on the Green Travel Guide,  allowing travellers to find over 2,000 certified and sustainable experiences across Australia.

 

Hall of Fame 2025

 

  • Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive  
  • Baird Bay Experience 
  • Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises 
  • Calypso Reef Cruises 
  • Cooinda Lodge Kakadu 
  • JPT Tours 
  • Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures 
  • Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park 
  • OzSail Adventures 
  • Passions of Paradise 
  • Sunlover Reef Cruises 

 

Green Travel Leaders 2025 

 

  • Boat Club Adventure Cruises 
  • Cobbold Gorge Tours 
  • Cumberland Charter Yachts 
  • Dolphin Swim Australia 
  • Local Eyes Sydney 
  • Minjerribah Camping 
  • Skytrek Willow Springs Station 
  • South West Eco Discoveries 
  • Sugarbag Safaris 
  • Surf N’ Dirt Adventure Tours Margaret River 
  • Rottnest Island Authority  
  • Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk 
  • Walk into Luxury  


Media contact:
Ecotourism Australia – Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager e: myv@ecotourism.org.au 
ph: (07) 3256 6777

 

About Ecotourism Australia 

Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports Australia’s visitor economy through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. Our key legacy program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program and the Sustainable Tourism Certification, launched in 2022 supports non-nature based businesses achieve global best-practice. Today there are some 2000 accommodation, tours and attractions certified by Ecotourism Australia. 

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