Ecotourism Australia has honoured two of the nation’s most influential tourism leaders, Peter Gash OAM and Dr Claire Ellis, with Lifetime Achievement Awards in recognition of their outstanding contribution to the growth and advancement of ecotourism in Australia.
Presented at the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit on the Gold Coast, the awards recognise distinguished service and exceptional leadership in championing sustainability, advancing the mission and values of Ecotourism Australia, and promoting Australia as a world-leading destination for responsible and nature-based tourism.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said both recipients had made a profound and lasting contribution to the Australian tourism industry and had helped shape the evolution of sustainable tourism over many decades.
“These awards recognise individuals whose influence extends well beyond their own organisations and achievements,” Ms Keenan said.
“Peter and Claire have each played a significant role in advancing ecotourism in Australia, helping demonstrate that tourism can be a force for environmental stewardship, community benefit and positive change.”
“Both have dedicated their careers to protecting and showcasing Australia’s natural and cultural assets while helping build the credibility and professionalism of our sector. Their contributions have helped position Australia as a global leader in responsible and sustainable tourism.”
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Peter Gash OAM
A pioneering ecotourism operator and conservation advocate, Peter Gash has spent more than four decades transforming Lady Elliot Island into one of Australia’s most celebrated ecotourism destinations.
Under his leadership, Lady Elliot Island has become internationally recognised for environmental restoration, renewable energy innovation, reef conservation and sustainable visitor experiences. His work has demonstrated how tourism can actively contribute to the protection and regeneration of natural environments while creating meaningful visitor connections with nature.
“Peter’s vision and commitment have inspired operators across Australia and around the world,” Ms Keenan said.
“He has shown that environmental conservation and tourism success can go hand in hand and has become one of Australia’s most respected ambassadors for sustainable tourism and reef stewardship.”
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Dr Claire Ellis
Former Ecotourism Australia Chair Dr Claire Ellis was recognised for her outstanding leadership and service to the organisation and the broader tourism sector.
Over more than a decade on the Ecotourism Australia Board, including six years as Chair, Dr Ellis helped guide the organisation through a period of significant growth and increasing global recognition for its certification programs and sustainability leadership.
A highly respected tourism strategist and consultant, Dr Ellis has made a substantial contribution to destination development, sustainable tourism planning and industry advancement across Australia.
“Claire’s leadership has had a lasting impact on both Ecotourism Australia and the wider tourism industry,” Ms Keenan said.
“Her strategic vision, commitment to good governance and passion for sustainable tourism helped strengthen the organisation and position it for the future. She has been a tireless advocate for tourism that protects place, supports communities and delivers long-term value.”
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Ms Keenan said the awards reflected not only the achievements of two remarkable individuals, but also the importance of recognising those who have helped shape the future of Australian tourism.
“At a time when sustainability has never been more important, it is fitting that we acknowledge those whose leadership, courage and commitment have helped pave the way for future generations.”
“Peter Gash and Claire Ellis have each left an extraordinary legacy, and we are proud to recognise their contribution through these Lifetime Achievement Awards.”
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L-R: Peter Gash OAM and Dr Claire Ellis
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Media contacts:
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 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 2500 accommodation, tours and attractions certified by Ecotourism Australia. Ecotourism Australia is also a founding member of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA), a global association for sustainable tourism established in January 2025. TSCA members are responsible for certifying more than 19,000 travel and tourism enterprises, organisations, and destinations across the globe – representing the largest cohort of certified operators worldwide.