by Ecotourism Australia | Aug 19, 2024 | General
Firescreek Botanical Winery in the Central Coast region of New South Wales has become Australia’s first ECO Certified winery experience.
This recognition by Ecotourism Australia underscores Firescreek Botanical Winery’s commitment to globally recognised best-practice standards and highlights their leadership in eco and sustainable tourism. Based in a certified ECO Destination, this achievement illustrates a region wide effort to meet the increasing expectation of best-practice sustainable tourism experiences.
“We are incredibly proud to receive this ecotourism certification,” said Nadia O’Connell, Owner of Firescreek Botanical Winery. “This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and our passion for protecting the environment. We believe that by practicing sustainable agriculture and following permaculture principles, we can create a positive impact on our community and inspire others to do the same.”
Ecotourism Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Ms Elissa Keenan, congratulated Firescreek on this achievement.
“Firescreek Botanical Winery is the first winery in Australia to be awarded ECO Certification. Achieving global standard certification is a testament to their dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship, she said.”
“This milestone not only highlights the national leadership as the first ECO certified winery in Australia but also reinforces the Central Coast’s status as a committed ECO Certified Destination.”
ECO 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.
Firescreek Botanical Winery practices organic farming, avoiding synthetic chemicals and pesticides to maintain a healthy ecosystem. Integrating permaculture principles, the winery creates a resilient agricultural system that enhances soil fertility, conserves water and supports local wildlife. Guided tours at the winery educate visitors about sustainable farming and organic agriculture, reflecting the winery’s dedication to eco-conscious practices.
This achievement was supported by Destination Central Coast’s award-winning ‘Eco Advocate’ industry incentive program, delivered in partnership with Ecotourism Australia to drive understanding of sustainable tourism principles across the entire region’s visitor economy.
Explore Firescreek Botanical Winery on the Green Travel Guide for more information: Firescreek Botanical Winery | Green Travel Guide
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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
About Ecotourism Australia
Ecotourism Australia is a non-government, not-for-profit organisation, established in 1991, that promotes and supports the ecotourism industry in Australia through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. We are recognised as the credible, national peak body for sustainable and nature-based tourism in Australia.
Our foundational program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program. We have more than 2,000 certified experiences in our ECO, Sustainable Tourism, Climate Action, and Respecting Our Culture Certifications. Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs, including the new Sustainable Tourism Certification, are acknowledged and recognised globally. We have a consumer-facing website that features every Sustainable Tourism Certified operator, ECO certified operator, and certified ECO certified Destination in Australia: https://greentravelguide.org
The ECO Destination Certification was developed by Ecotourism Australia using the international Green Destinations standard. The Certification assesses a region across the four pillars of sustainability and the destination must pass an on-site audit conducted by a third-party auditor before Certification can be granted.
In late 2022, a new Sustainable Tourism program was launched including a pre-certification benchmarking tool in the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard with founding partner Tourism Australia to support the broader tourism industry to demonstrate their commitment to, and be recognised for, the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural, financial/business, and socio-economic impact.
Ecotourism Australia has global partnerships, working with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Green Destinations (an international organisation for sustainable destination development); and key partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region including with WWF-Australia, Parks Australia and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).
by Ecotourism Australia | Aug 7, 2024 | Media Release
Two of Australia’s leading nature-based tourism businesses Scenic World in Sydney’s Blue Mountains and Paronella Park in tropical North Queensland, have been inducted into Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame this month, recognised for maintaining ECO Certification for 20 years.
The new inductees join an esteemed group of 57 other ECO certified businesses in the Hall of Fame.
This year a further 12 other ECO Certified tourism businesses have been honoured as ‘Green Travel Leaders’ for their 10 years of certification.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Ms Elissa Keenan praised these operators for their exceptional dedication and accomplishments over many years.
“I congratulate Scenic World and Paronella Park for reaching Ecotourism Australia’s prestigious Hall of Fame. They have established their reputation as leaders in eco and sustainable tourism practices by maintaining 20 years of ECO Certification.”
“Achieving Hall of Fame recognition celebrates certified tourism businesses ongoing dedication to global best practice sustainability standards. These businesses are at the forefront of world-leading sustainability, and I look forward to witnessing their ongoing innovation and leadership in eco and sustainable tourism,” she said
“Similarly, our Green Travel Leaders, recognised for a decade of ECO Certification, deserve commendation for their ongoing commitment to strong environmental, social and cultural management practices.”
Ecotourism Australia has certified more than 2,000 tours, attractions and accommodation experiences across the country. While more than half our Australian members have been certified for over 10 years, only 11% have achieved Hall of Fame status demonstrating a profound commitment to sustainability as a core component of their ecotourism businesses.
“At Ecotourism Australia, we proudly acknowledge our 30-year legacy of working with tourism operators and the broader industry. As the pioneering organisation to develop a national ECO Certification program, we are delighted to recognise our long-standing operators for their exceptional contributions,” Ms Keenan said.
Anthea Hammon, Managing Director, Scenic World awarded Hall of Fame in 2024 said, “Our Advanced Ecotourism certification pushes us to always do better, be better and think better about protecting the incredible environment we are surrounded by and to continually improve and evolve our sustainability efforts. And, because we welcome over a million visitors every year, we are especially proud to have reached 20 years of Advanced Ecotourism Certification, something we do not take for granted.”
Kayla Ousley, Education & Experiences Manager, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, recognised as a Green Travel Leader in 2024 said, “Being a certified operator with Ecotourism Australia is important to Lone Pine for many reasons. The certification and auditing process help us evaluate the systems we have in place and challenges us to continue to improve and expand our sustainability initiatives. Holding the certification also helps us communicate to our team and our visitors that we prioritise sustainability as a business and shows our commitment to creating a better future not only for wildlife, but for humankind.”
All operators certified by Ecotourism Australia are featured on the Green Travel Guide. The Green Travel Guide allows travellers to find over 2,000 certified and sustainable experiences across Australia and book directly with operators.
More travellers are seeking authentic, sustainable experiences backed by respected certification. Our globally recognised certification assures visitors they have chosen a tourism experience committed to strong business sustainability and positive environmental, social, and cultural impacts.
Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification program standards provide operators with key business development tools equipping them to champion their dedication to sustainability. It ensures continuous accountability towards long-term sustainability goals through regular auditing and reporting against global standard sustainable tourism criteria including business sustainability, environmental, social and cultural impacts.
Hall of Fame 2024
Paronella Park
Scenic World
Green Travel Leaders 2024
Big Mama Sailing
Catninga
Charter 1
Kingfisher Tours
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
Mt. Nancar Wilderness Retreat
Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat
Ningaloo Discovery
North Marine
Pindan Tours & 4WD Training
TreeTop Challenge
Tweed Eco Cruises
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Media contact:
Ecotourism Australia – Jillian Santry, Communications and Events Officer e: communications@ecotourism.org.au ph: 07 3256 6777
by Ecotourism Australia | Aug 5, 2024 | General
It is once again that time where we put a spotlight on our newly certified operators.
Recently, Gold Coast – Jet Ski Safaris, Small World Journeys and Traveller’s Rest 1770 achieved ECO Certification. Their dedication to sustainability and strong commitment to environmental, social, and cultural management practices is commendable. We are thrilled to welcome these passionate and dedicated businesses to Ecotourism Australia’s esteemed group of ECO Certified operators!
Whether you are craving an adrenaline rush, eager to embark on a fun learning adventure, or seeking a tranquil retreat, these experiences might be just what you are looking for.
Gold Coast – Jet Ski Safaris – Ecotourism Certified
A Couple riding a Jet Ski on the Gold Coast, QLD
Get ready to experience the thrill of jet skiing while supporting sustainable tourism with Jet Ski Safaris. Explore the islands and waterways of beautiful Surfers Paradise and encounter wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and wallabies (all on a jet ski!).
Jet Ski Safaris is committed to preserving Australia’s waterways and minimising their environmental impact. They ensure the delicate ecosystems, and the natural surroundings are protected and that their tours provide an exhilarating adventure while promoting environmental preservation.
So not only can you have fun, but you will also be contributing to the protection of our oceans!
Small World Journeys – Ecotourism, Climate Action & Respecting Our Culture Certified
A group of students exploring the Daintree Rainforest, Far North Queensland
Explore the beauty of Australia through Small World Journeys’ wide range of immersive and eco-conscious tours for student groups and teens. Whether it is geography, biology, sustainability, Aboriginal culture, environmental studies, marine science or leadership skills you are after, there is a tour for everyone.
Each tour has been designed with Australia’s Traditional Owners in mind and includes activities focused on sustainability and community support. By travelling with Small World Journeys, you will go from a “regular” tourist to a traveller contributing to a better world.
It is safe to say that it will be an adventure like no other!
Traveller’s Rest 1770 – Ecotourism Certified
A lady pouring a glass of wine at her campsite, Travellers Rest 1770, Agnes Waters, QLD
Are you in search of your next retreat? Traveller’s Rest 1770 is the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in nature. Enjoy a unique eco-camping experience with the comfort of well-maintained amenities (which of course includes hot showers)!
Traveller’s Rest 1770 is also more than just a campground. They offer bush track tours where you can explore native Australian bushland while learning about the traditional and cultural use of plants.
Whether you are seeking relaxation or a bit of adventure, Travellers’ Rest 1770 welcomes you to enjoy the tranquil surroundings of Agnes Water.
Visit the Green Travel Guide to find out about our newly certified operators.
by Ecotourism Australia | Jul 28, 2024 | Article
World Nature Conservation Day, celebrated July 28th each year, reminds us of the importance of protecting our planet’s natural wonders. Australia, with its iconic beaches, captivating landscapes, ancient rainforests, and rich biodiversity, are not just scenic backdrops for travel memories—they are essential assets that need to be preserved for future generations to appreciate and explore.
Ecotourism plays an important role in this preservation effort by allowing travellers to not only enjoy the stunning landscapes but also gain insights about ecosystems and opportunities to support conservation practices.
By choosing responsible ecotourism practices and operators, travellers can experience a stronger connection to the natural world while ensuring its protection.
This World Conservation Day, embrace your role as a responsible traveller by engaging with ECO-certified operators dedicated to sustainable tourism practices. Connect and conserve, together let’s celebrate the preservation of our natural world for years to come.
Take a look at three of our certified operators who are doing their piece to conserve nature.
Phillip Island Nature Park – Millowl / Cowes, Victoria
Advanced Ecotourism & ROC Certified + Green Travel Leader & Hall of Fame
Located on Victoria’s pristine coast, Phillip Island Nature Parks exemplifies ecological preservation and responsible tourism. This conservation organisation is dedicated to environmental sustainability, conservation research, and education through its renowned ecotourism attractions.
Visitors to Phillip Island can explore eco-friendly facilities such as the Penguin Parade Visitor Centre, built with low-carbon materials and equipped with solar panels and water recycling systems. The Penguin Parade itself offers a memorable experience where visitors can observe adorable penguins returning to shore at sunset while minimising the environmental impact on the penguins’ natural habitat.
Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy Wildlife Ecoboat Tours around Phillip Island to observe diverse marine life. These tours not only raise awareness about marine ecosystems and conservation but also enhance the visitor experience while promoting sustainable practices like the “Bins on Boats” initiative in partnership with the fishing industry.
Immersive experiences at the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm also allow visitors to learn about local conservation efforts and sustainable farming practices.
By visiting Phillip Island Nature Parks, guests not only enjoy unique wildlife encounters but also contribute to the conservation of local wildlife and habitats, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore this ecological treasure.
Discover more about Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Group of Penguins coming out of the water at Phillip Island Nature Parks.
Thala Beach Nature Reserve – Yirrganydji / Port Douglas, Far North Queensland
Advanced Ecotourism Certified & Green Travel Leader
Thala Beach Nature Reserve exemplifies a profound commitment to ecological restoration and conservation in Australia’s tropical north. Situated on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas, Thala has transformed from a degraded sugar plantation into a thriving native forest, demonstrating the positive impact of sustainable tourism practices.
Since opening in 1997, Thala Beach Nature Reserve has welcomed over 600,000 guests. The transformation from its original state to the present day highlights the success of Thala’s revegetation efforts, which have dramatically increased native forest, biodiversity, and wildlife populations. Led by Brett Kelly and David Anderson, Thala’s environment team has implemented ongoing tree planting, weed eradication, and habitat improvements, resulting in a marked improvement in the local biosphere.
The reserve spans 58 hectares of regenerated natural forest and diverse habitats. Sustainable practices are integrated throughout the property, from eco-friendly boutique timber bungalows to the Ospreys Restaurant, which sources ingredients locally and minimises environmental impact. Visitors can engage in eco-activities such as guided nature walks and bird and butterfly talk tours, enhancing their understanding of environmental issues and the interconnections within the ecosystem.
Visitors can also explore nearby UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest or relax on the private beach. Thala Beach Nature Reserve harmoniously combines luxury with conservation, providing a scenic environment where guests can enjoy Australia’s natural wonders while supporting conservation efforts.
Discover more about Thala Beach Nature Reserve.
Birdwing Bungalow at Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Oak Beach, Port Douglas
EcoTreasures – Eora / Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve, New South Wales
Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action & ROC Certified + Green Travel leader
In the heart of Sydney’s Northern Beaches, EcoTreasures offers eco-tourism experiences designed to appreciate the region’s nature through sustainable practices. Advanced Ecotourism, Climate Action, and ROC Certified, EcoTreasures has been a pioneer in eco-tourism since 2010.
Guests can explore Sydney’s marine wonders on the Manly Snorkelling Tour at Cabbage Tree Bay Aquatic Reserve. Led by knowledgeable local guides, this experience not only introduces guests to the diverse marine life in the area but also educates them about the importance of marine conservation.
For those interested in exploring Sydney’s coastal landscapes, the Manly Coastal Walk offers scenic views while actively contributing to conservation efforts through beach clean-ups and education sessions on pollution management.
The eco-tours to the Blue Mountains educate visitors about the region’s natural heritage and indigenous culture while minimising environmental impact. Their commitment to conservation education fosters sustainable travel experiences, deepens connections to nature, and promotes responsible tourism practices among visitors.
Discover more about EcoTreasures.
EcoTreasures Manly Coastal Walk tour, Sydney NSW
by Ecotourism Australia | Jul 19, 2024 | Media Release
Joining Australia’s leading cohort of ecotourism destinations, the Capricorn Coast has reached global best-practice sustainable destination standards with Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level.
As the fifth certified destination in Queensland and the 11th in Australia, the region has been proactive and transparent in sharing milestones along their sustainability journey, which expands beyond the tourism sector.
Through the support of the Queensland Government, the Eco-Certification Destination program is enabling 11 local government areas and regional tourism authorities with funding up to $150,000 to achieve globally recognised certifications.
Situated in the Southern Great Barrier Reef, Capricorn Coast boasts unparalleled marine and reef experiences. In addition, the region offers beautiful beaches, lush national parks, and charming coastal towns. Visitors can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving, and fishing in the pristine waters. Capricorn Coast completes the trifecta of Southern Great Barrier Reef regions, also including Bundaberg and Gladstone, implementing world class sustainable tourism through ECO Destination Certification.
The Capricorn Coast has received intense support from their local industry who are working towards being more sustainable in their own operations. Seven local operators hold ECO Certification, including Capricorn Caves, who have maintained best-practice certification standards for more than 20 years.
“Ecotourism Australia are pleased to award ECO Destination Certification to Capricorn Coast, who have been champions in their commitment to internationally recognised sustainable tourism standards,” said Ecotourism Australia’s Chief Executive Officer, Elissa Keenan.
“Strong support from all stakeholders has been instrumental in this achievement and it has been incredible to see passion, dedication and collaboration from the council, Regional Tourism Organisation, Traditional Owners and local operators to reach the certification milestone.”
The certification was led by Livingstone Shire Council and supported by Capricorn Enterprise and local tourism industry stakeholders.
Development and Environment Committee Co-Chair, Councillor Pat Eastwood said achieving ECO Destination Certification is a significant milestone for Livingstone Shire, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to sustainable tourism.
“This achievement would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Council, Capricorn Enterprise, and Ecotourism Australia, as well as the essential funding from the Queensland Government’s Department of Tourism and Sport. Additionally, the dedicated efforts of our project lead, Amy Druery, were crucial to our success,” Cr Eastwood said.
“This certification not only puts Livingstone Shire on the map as a premier eco-friendly destination but also ensures that we continue to offer high-quality, sustainable tourism experiences. We are proud to join the ranks of globally recognised eco destinations and look forward to furthering our sustainable practices to benefit both our community and the environment.”
Capricorn Enterprise CEO Mary Carroll said, “Achieving ECO Destination certification for the Capricorn Coast was identified in our Destination Tourism Strategy 2021-2030, not only in response to the fact that sustainability is moving out of niche sector tourism and into the mainstream, but to make a very clear statement about protecting the environmental, social and cultural values which make this community and destination so special.”
“Capricorn Enterprise made a pledge at the National Regions Rising conference in 2022 hosted by the Regional Institute of Australia (RIA), that we would achieve the ECO Destination Certification by the end of 2024, but we have achieved it six months earlier, for which we are most proud.”
Member for Keppel Brittany Lauga said this certification helped bring even more eyes to the great tourism experiences in the region.
“The Miles Government is working hard to position Queensland and our tourism destinations as world leaders in sustainable tourism.
“It is great to see the Capricorn Coast and Livingstone Shire Council area achieve ECO-Destination Certification under the program which provided up to $150 000 to eligible applicants to earn this important recognition.
“In line with Towards Tourism 2032 this program will help our tourism destinations meet a real growing demand from tourists around the globe who are looking for low impact travel, high quality nature-based experiences and an ongoing commitment to sustainability.”
Tourism and Events Queensland CEO Patricia O’Callaghan said nature is at the heart of Queensland’s tourism story so it’s great to see another Queensland destination achieve this outcome.
“Congratulations to Capricorn Enterprise and Livingstone Shire Council on the Capricorn Coast’s ECO certification, the fifth Queensland destination to prioritise sustainable tourism policies, procedures and programs.
“More and more destinations in Queensland are becoming ECO certified which is part of a bigger strategy to maintain world best-practice standards and align with current global trends in nature-based tourism and ecotourism.
“The certification gives travellers confidence that destinations are committed to sustainable practices and offer high-quality nature-based tourism experiences.”
ECO Destination Certification at the Ecotourism level assesses a region on more than 90 criteria across eight sections including Destination Management, Environment and Climate, Culture and Tradition, and Social Wellbeing. By achieving ECO Destination Certification, Capricorn Coast joins a global network of more than 200 destinations in 60 countries through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations.
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Media contact:
Ecotourism Australia – Jillian Santry, Communications and Events Officer e: communications@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 the ecotourism industry in Australia through building capacity and actively promoting sustainable tourism operations and systems. We are recognised as the credible, national peak body for sustainable and nature-based tourism in Australia.
Our foundational program – ECO Certification – was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program. We have more than 1,900 certified experiences in our ECO, Sustainable Tourism, Climate Action, and Respecting Our Culture Certifications. Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs, including the new Sustainable Tourism Certification, are acknowledged and recognised globally. We have a consumer-facing website that features every Sustainable Tourism Certified operator, ECO certified operator, and certified ECO certified Destination in Australia: https://greentravelguide.org
The ECO Destination Certification was developed by Ecotourism Australia using the international Green Destinations standard. The Certification assesses a region across the four pillars of sustainability and the destination must pass an on-site audit conducted by a third-party auditor before Certification can be granted.
In late 2022, a new Sustainable Tourism program was launched including a pre-certification benchmarking tool in the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard with founding partner Tourism Australia to support the broader tourism industry to demonstrate their commitment to, and be recognised for, the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural, financial/business, and socio-economic impact.
Ecotourism Australia has global partnerships, working with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), Green Destinations (an international organisation for sustainable destination development); and key partnerships in the Asia-Pacific region including with WWF-Australia, Parks Australia and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority (GBRMPA).
