by Ecotourism Australia | Dec 16, 2024 | Media Release
YHA are today celebrating a significant achievement in sustainability with three of their properties attaining Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia.
YHA Sydney Harbour, YHA Port Elliot Beach House and YHA Adelaide Central have each demonstrated their strong commitment to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles by implementing global best-practice sustainable tourism standards to become certified.
“Achieving Ecotourism Australia’s Sustainable Tourism Certification underscores our commitment to environmental stewardship and community support. This certification not only differentiates us in a competitive market but also enhances our operational efficiency.
By adopting sustainable practices, we are proud to offer eco-conscious travellers a responsible and enriching stay, while contributing positively to local economies and cultural preservation. Our inclusion in the Green Travel Guide further amplifies our visibility and reputation as a leader in sustainable accommodation. Our partnership with Ecotourism Australia is a win-win situation with sustainable travel the big winner.” says Paul McGrath, CEO of YHA Australia.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan praised YHA for their exceptional commitment to sustainability.
“Congratulations to YHA Sydney Harbour, YHA Port Elliot Beach House and YHA Adelaide Central for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification. Each property has truly embraced the principles of sustainability and shown real leadership in reducing their environmental footprint and creating positive social impact.
We look forward to continuing to support YHA as they aim to certify all 19 of their owned and operated properties in the next 12 months.”
YHA properties showcase their commitment to sustainable tourism through a range of unique and meaningful initiatives. At YHA Sydney Harbour, The Big Dig Archaeology Education Centre provides school children with hands-on learning opportunities about Australia’s largest urban archaeological site. YHA Adelaide Central runs Feel Good Fridays, where pancakes are served for a gold coin donation, with all proceeds supporting the Hutt Street Centre to aid Adelaide’s homeless community. Meanwhile, YHA Port Elliot participates annually in Earth Hour and Clean Up Australia Day, and even have their own vegetable garden and on-site compost.
Research by UK-based consulting firm Bureau Veritas found that hostel-style accommodation is 82 per cent less carbon intense per bed than hotels. While shared spaces like kitchens and co-living rooms already reduce overall energy use, YHA goes a step further with many properties using solar power and rainwater tanks.
Properties that obtain Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are now able to add their certification to major online booking platforms, in recognition of the certification meeting global best-practice standards.
Achieving certification is a rigorous process, involving over 200 key criteria across the four pillars of sustainability and strong business practices. To achieve global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification, it can take up to twelve months and includes an independent third-party audit before certification is awarded. Accommodation providers must demonstrate ongoing commitment, with periodic independent audits required to maintain certification.
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Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
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.
About YHA
YHA Australia is a for-purpose, membership-based organisation, providing curious travellers with low cost, quality short-stay accommodation for over 85 years. YHA’s mission is to create communities in diverse spaces and connect travellers with authentic local experiences in a sustainable way, with a purpose to create a more open and accommodating world. YHA Australia own, operate and partner with a diverse range of properties across Australia offering private and co-living accommodation with facilities like on-site pools, kitchens and open-air rooftops. They create unique, sustainable spaces with comfort in safe, welcoming environments – giving their guests the freedom to explore. From thriving city destinations to off-the-beaten-path locations, there is something for everyone – whether you live in Australia or are just visiting. Currently, YHA have a network of 49 properties across the country and are part of the global organisation Hostelling International (HI) – a network of over 3,000 unique places to stay in more than 70 countries.
For more information on YHA Australia, please visit http://yha.com.au.
by Ecotourism Australia | Dec 9, 2024 | Media Release
Salter Brothers Hospitality have reached a major sustainability milestone with four of their Spicers Retreats achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia.
The four Southeast Queensland retreats – Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge and Spicers Hidden Vale – have each demonstrated their strong commitment to environmental, socio-economic, cultural and responsible management principles, by implementing global best-practice sustainable tourism standards to achieve certification.
“Today marks an incredible milestone for Salter Brothers Hospitality as we celebrate the Sustainable Tourism Certification of four of our Queensland properties by Ecotourism Australia,” says CEO Tash Tobias.
“This recognition is testament to our commitment to responsible tourism and the hard work of our dedicated teams. By protecting and honouring our natural surroundings, we’re able to create experiences that not only inspire our guests but also safeguard these precious environments for generations to come.
Our journey doesn’t end here – it only strengthens our resolve to lead with integrity and sustainability in everything we do.”
Salter Brothers Hospitality has integrated numerous sustainability initiatives throughout its properties, including partnering with community and conservation organisations, repurposing food waste, sourcing local produce, and providing accessible rooms for guests.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said the commitment by the four Spicers Retreats was outstanding.
“Travellers are increasingly demanding more environmentally friendly stays that give back to local communities, and Spicers Retreats absolutely reflect this philosophy in everything they do.
We congratulate Spicers Tamarind Retreat, Spicers Clovelly Estate, Spicers Peak Lodge, and Spicers Hidden Vale for achieving Sustainable Tourism Certification, joining over 100 Ecotourism Australia-certified hotels and resorts across Australia who meet global best-practice standards.
It is wonderful to see the accommodation sector lead the way in integrating sustainability across a wide range of environmental and social impact initiatives. For example, Spicers Peak Lodge partners with Vanguard Laundry, a socially responsible linen supplier, and features Leif bathroom amenities, which are eco-friendly, plant-based, and made in Australia.
We look forward to continuing to support Salters Brothers Hospitality in their sustainability journey.”
Properties that obtain Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia are now able to add their certification to their Booking.com listing, in recognition of the certification meeting global best-practice standards.
Achieving certification is a rigorous process, involving over 200 key criteria across the four pillars of sustainability and strong business practices. To achieve global best-practice Sustainable Tourism Certification, it can take up to twelve months and includes an independent third-party audit before certification is awarded. Hotels must demonstrate ongoing commitment, with periodic independent audits required to maintain certification.
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Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Myv Costelloe, Stakeholder Engagement Manager, e: myv@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
About Salter Brothers Hospitality
Salter Brothers Hospitality (SBH) is a leading Australian luxury hospitality company, committed to creating unforgettable experiences for discerning travellers. We operate a curated collection of boutique hotels, retreats, and estates, including the renowned Spicers Retreats, Bannisters Group and the soon-to-launch Ardour Hotels & Estates.
Salter Brothers Hospitality proudly operates and manages a portfolio of exceptional, luxury hospitality brands across Queensland, New South Wales and South Australia. The portfolio comprises 20 exceptional luxury retreats, hotels and lodges, 29 exquisite restaurants and bars, and the renowned Scenic Rim Trail, Queensland’s only inclusion in the Great Walks of Australia.
You can find more information about Salter Brothers Hospitality and its portfolio at www.salterbrothershospitality.com
by Ecotourism Australia | Oct 21, 2024 | Media Release
Coral Sea Marina, based in Airlie Beach, Queensland, has become the first marina in Australia to earn Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia.
This achievement underscores their commitment to global best-practice standards and highlights their leadership in sustainable tourism.
Joscelyn O’Keefe, Head of Marketing and Business Development expressed the importance of this recognition.
“ Our marina is uniquely located at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef and as a destination marina we attract hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. We are acutely aware of the key role the marina plays in the development of a sustainable tourism industry in the Whitsundays and therefore, our commitment to effective environmental management is a key priority for us as a business.
“We are thrilled to receive Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia and to be the first marina in Australia to achieve this recognition. This accomplishment highlights our commitment to protecting the natural environment and promoting responsible boating practices.
“ Sustainability has always been at the heart of our operations, this Certification will help us on our journey to continue to promote the concept of ‘travel for good’ to our guests, visitors and the wider community.”
Ecotourism Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms Elissa Keenan, congratulated Coral Sea Marina on their achievement.
“Coral Sea Marina is the first marina to be awarded Sustainable Tourism Certification. Achieving global standard certification is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.
“It is also testament to the focus of the tourism industry in the Whitsunday’s region. We have 38 ECO Certified operators in the region and 18 operate their tour experiences from the Coral Sea Marina.
“Australia boasts the 3rd largest marine jurisdiction in the world, contributing $118.5 billion to our economy and supporting 462,000 jobs annually. It’s our responsibility to safeguard these waters for future generations. Ecotourism Australia is proud to have nearly 200 ECO Certified operators and over 700 marine-based experiences across Australia who are committed to ensuring tourism activities play a role in preserving our oceans across our region. Coral Sea Marina is further contributing to this commitment,” Ms Keenan said.
Sustainable Tourism Certification assesses businesses, through third party auditing, against Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised ecotourism standard across the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural, and socio-economic impact and sustainable business operations.
Coral Sea Marina is dedicated to sustainability, integrating numerous initiatives throughout its operations. The Coral Sea Academy educates guests and locals on the environment, Great Barrier Reef, and eco-friendly boating. The marina features interpretive signage, a seagrass nursery, and citizen science programs. It also honours the traditional owners of the land, the Birri-Gubba Nation through cultural collaborations, signage, and online resources. Coral Sea Marina provides environmental information, green boating guides, and updates via digital platforms and newsletters, promoting sustainability and respect for the Whitsundays’ natural and cultural heritage.
Coral Sea Marina is an award-winning destination marina in the Whitsundays, at the heart of the world-heritage listed Great Barrier Reef. It features 520 wet berths, two lively shoreside marina villages, and hosts 80% of the region’s on-water tourism experiences, including 52 commercial operators. With its inspiring events calendar and prime location, Coral Sea Marina is the ultimate place to stay, play, and explore the Whitsundays.
You can discover more about them on our Green Travel Guide: Coral Sea Marina Resort
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Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Jillian Santry, Communications and Events Officer, e: communications@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
by Ecotourism Australia | Oct 17, 2024 | Media Release
Ecotourism Australia’s members have elected four new Directors and one returning Director to comprise the eight-person Ecotourism Australia Board, as announced during yesterday’s Annual General Meeting.
Our voluntary Board of Directors hold a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s strategic direction and ensuring our operational success. They are entrusted with overseeing our policies, finances, and overall performance to align with our mission and goals.
Ecotourism Australia Board appointments:
Chair: Nat Burke (Head of Regenerative Climate, WWF Australia)
Deputy Chair: Alysia Brandenburg, AbPs Consulting Services
Robert Taylor (CEO, WAITOC)
Wendy Hills (Wendy Hills Consulting)
David Young (Director Sustainability, Accor Pacific)
Sharon Raguse (CEO, Tourism Noosa)
Amy Gash (General Manager Brand and Strategy, Lady Elliott Island Eco Resort)
Jeff Gillies (Chief Commercial Officer, Coral Expeditions)
Ecotourism Australia newly appointed Chair Nat Burke welcomed the new Board and is looking forward to another year of positive impact for sustainable tourism.
“Ecotourism Australia remains committed to leading the way in sustainable tourism, driven by the growing demand for responsible travel and our vision to inspire positive change. Our focus will be to continue supporting our Certified Operators and Destinations, Individual and Supporter members and partners to advocate for sustainable tourism within the industry.
“On behalf of Ecotourism Australia, I would like to welcome our new Directors and thank our outgoing Board Directors Caroline Densley of Diverse Travel and Janet Mackay of TRC Tourism for their many contributions to the organisation and the sector.
“We would also like to extend our appreciation to our members for taking the time to vote this year and we look forward to the fresh perspectives our new Directors will bring, complementing the expertise of our existing Board as we continue to drive the growth and development of Ecotourism Australia,” Mr Burke said.
We welcome the following four new Directors to the Board of Directors for a two-year term.
Amy Gash of Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort (Certified Operator) – Amy and her family are the proud Custodians of Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort. Active in the tourism community, Amy has served on the Women in Tourism Gold Coast Committee and completed the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Young Professional Mentoring Program. She has received several accolades, including the Young Achiever Award at the Queensland Tourism Awards in 2022 and the Gold Coast Bulletin Women of the Year ‘Environmental Warrior’ award in 2023. Amy is dedicated to inspiring young people to pursue careers in sustainable tourism.
Jeff Gillies of Coral Expeditions (Certified Operator) – With over 30 years of leadership experience in the travel and tourism industry, Jeff brings a wealth of expertise across key sectors, including expedition cruises, major events, and hotel operations, particularly within the Asia Pacific region. A passionate advocate for sustainable tourism, he has led iconic businesses such as Cooinda Lodge Kakadu and the Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel and has served as a Regional Director with Tourism Queensland. Currently, as the Chief Commercial Officer of Coral Expeditions, he oversees growth strategy and partnerships, including the company’s Hall of Fame recognition with Ecotourism Australia.
Jeff’s extensive governance experience includes serving on various advisory boards and committees focused on tourism and sustainability, such as Tourism Tropical North Queensland’s Finance and Risk Committee, the Reef Authority Tourism Representative Advisory Committee, Savannah Way Ltd, and the Kakadu Tourism Consultative Committee.
Sharon Raguse of Tourism Noosa (Corporate Supporter Member) – Sharon Raguse is a dedicated executive with over 25 years of regional tourism experience. She has held significant roles, including Manager of Tourism Development at BEDA, Regional Director at TEQ, and General Manager of Falls Creek Ski Lifts. Sharon has contributed to various Government Tourism Recovery Task Forces and served as a National Tourism Awards judge. Notably, she led recovery efforts for East Gippsland Shire Council, achieving global recognition ECO Destination Certification as Victoria’s first Ecotourism Australia Certified Destination. Since returning to Queensland as CEO of Tourism Noosa in August 2023, she focuses on reducing environmental impacts and promoting cultural awareness of the Kabi Kabi people.
David Young of Accor Pacific (Corporate Supporter Member) – David Young is a seasoned sustainability leader with extensive experience in the travel and hospitality sectors in Australia, New Zealand, and the UK. As Director of Sustainability for Accor Pacific, he leads the region’s sustainability strategies, focusing on Sustainable Tourism Certification through Ecotourism Australia, carbon reduction, and diversity initiatives. David has also held key sustainability roles at Qantas Group and the Oneworld Airline alliance.
His governance roles include directorships at YHA Australia, Out for Australia, and the Golden Stave Foundation. A proud Gamilaroi man, David holds qualifications in commercial law, accounting, hospitality, and tourism management.
Together with returning Director Alysia Brandenburg of AbPs Consulting (elected-Deputy Chair), who join Nat Burke of WWF Australia (elected Chair), Wendy Hills of Wendy Hills Consulting and Robert Taylor of WAITOC form Ecotourism Australia’s Board for the next twelve months.
We sincerely thank outgoing Board members Caroline Densley of Diverse Travel and Janet Mackay of TRC Tourism, Dr Claire Ellis of Claire Ellis Consulting and Peter Johson of Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat who stood down earlier this year, for their incredible contribution to Ecotourism Australia and commitment to our principles and values.
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Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: Jillian Santry, Communications and Events Officer, e: communications@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777
To see all the latest news: News & Blog | Ecotourism Australia
by Ecotourism Australia | Sep 27, 2024 | Article
A Journey toward a More Harmonious and Peaceful World through Sustainable Travel
Celebrated annually on September 27, World Tourism Day is more than a celebration of travel; it serves as an important moment to reflect on the impacts tourism has on our society – creating jobs, contributing to economic growth, connecting communities, and reducing poverty. Additionally, tourism encourages cultural understanding and social and environmental sustainability, which can help create a more harmonious society.
This year’s World Tourism Day 2024 theme by UN Tourism is “Tourism and Peace,” highlighting the potential of the tourism sector as a mechanism for positive impacts on global peace. Sustainable tourism practices foster the inclusion of local communities and economies in the tourism sector, while preserving of natural and cultural resources. This theme resonates deeply with the core values of Ecotourism Australia, which advocates for sustainable tourism practices that protect our natural environment while enriching communities.
Partnering with strategic allies is essential for advancing sustainability in the tourism industry and across the visitor economy to drive benefits for businesses committed to sustainable practices. By aligning with key strategic partners, we leverage collective expertise and resources to address complex challenges and drive positive change.
In collaboration with the University of Queensland and Christmas Island Tourism Association, and thanks to Parks Australia funding we have made significant strides with the Indian Ocean Territories Marine Parks Grant, a multi-year grant program, which began in July 2023 and runs through until 31 May 2025.
The project focuses on bolstering tourism capacity and sustainability in the Indian Ocean Territories by educating local operators on the four pillars of sustainability. We have developed a comprehensive toolkit that highlights local examples and provides practical guidance to inspire sustainable practices for local tourism operators.
Support and subsidies have been provided to operators on Christmas Island and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands to facilitate their participation in the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program and progress toward global standard certifications. To date, we have conducted on-the-ground workshops and one-on-one information sessions, directly assisting six operators with capacity building and mentoring efforts. This initiative aims to ensure responsible tourism growth and enhance the local economy through sustainable practices.
Ecotourism Australia actively supports sustainability and community-driven initiatives within the tourism industry. In collaboration with the Kangaroo Island Tourism Alliance (KITA), we created the Island Guardians Toolkit, designed to help local businesses embrace the principles of “island guardianship.” This toolkit not only encourages eco-friendly practices but also aims to amplify these efforts by sharing them with a wider audience through the Island Guardians program.
Launching today on World Tourism Day, the Island Guardians initiative will be part of the global Travel Beyond campaign, joining a larger movement of 100 destinations collaborating to tackle key environmental challenges.
As we celebrate World Tourism Day 2024, we recognise the crucial role of sustainable and responsible tourism in fostering a more peaceful world and sustainable practices that enhance our travel experience and create a more harmonious world.
