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2025 Hall of Fame & Green Travel Leaders Announced
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.
Celebrating World Ocean’s Day with Ecotourism Australia’s Certified Operators
This World Oceans Day, we celebrate the ocean’s wonder and the operators who are committed to preserving the vital life it supports. Tourism offers a gateway to the ocean’s wonder - from reef dives to sea kayaking adventures, it shapes how we connect with marine environments. But this connection also comes with a duty of care. Sustainable tourism, as championed by our certified operators, ensures these experiences protect the ocean and the life it sustains. The UN’s annual celebration of the ocean, World Ocean’s Day, exists to remind us that the ocean is our life source. The 2025 theme, Wonder: Sustaining What Sustains Us, calls on all actors to conserve and sustainably use the ocean so that future generations can have the chance to revel in its wonders. In honour of World Oceans Day, we’re spotlighting three of our certified marine tourism operators who help protect the ocean – while connecting travellers with its unforgettable wonders: 1. Soul Surf School – ECO Certified Image: Group Learn To Surf Experience Packages, Soul Surf School Soul Surf School are a family-owned, locally-operated business situated on Byron Bay’s iconic Main Beach. At the heart of everything they do is a commitment to protecting the environment, including using eco-friendly cleaning products for wetsuits, recycling wetsuits and boards for the local community, and using slurry tubs to prevent washing soaps from entering local waterways. Soul Surf School also champion accessibility in surfing, ensuring that everyone, regardless of ability, can witness first-hand the wonder of the ocean and the importance of taking sustainable actions to protect it. Find Soul Surf School on the Green Travel Guide here. 2. Ocean Rafting – Advanced ECO Certified, Climate Action Certified, Green Travel Leader, Hall of Fame. Image: Southern Lights Tour, Ocean Rafting ECO Certified for more than 20 years, Ocean Rafting offers exhilarating vessel tours through the Whitsundays’ most desirable destinations, with experiences including snorkelling and guided walks. Ocean Rafting is the only company in the Whitsundays with a dedicated research vessel and six Master Reef Guides. As world-leading reef interpreters within the Great Barrier Reef World Heritage Area, Master Ree Gudies are passionate about protecting the Reef’s future through education, conservation, and responsible tourism. By sharing the wonder of the Great Barrier Reef, Ocean Rafting inspires action, showing how sustainable tourism protects the natural beauty that makes our oceans so special. Find Ocean Rafting on the Green Travel Guide here. 3. Ningaloo Reef Dive – Advanced ECO Certified Image: Manta Ray Interaction Tour, Ningaloo Reef Dive Ningaloo Reef Dive offers a range of unforgettable marine adventures in the pristine waters of Coral Bay – providing guests with the opportunity to snorkel and dive alongside majestic marine life. Their sustainability goals focus on minimising their ecological footprint, preserving marine biodiversity, and promoting conservation awareness. Ningaloo Reef Dive go one step further than allowing guests to witness the ocean's abundance, wisdom, and awe – they also actively participate in citizen science initiatives that drive innovation to protect their region. Find Ningaloo Reef Dive on the Green Travel Guide here. To find out more about the UN’s World Oceans Day and the 2025 theme, check out their website here.
The Rangers Cottage
Just a stone’s throw away from a secluded arm of Sydney Harbour, The Ranger’s Cottage Manly offers a quiet beachside retreat nestled within a leafy bush reserve. With funding support from Destination New South Wales, the harbourside cottage engaged with the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard to assess its business practices across the four pillars of sustainability -Sustainable Management, Environmental Impacts, Socio-economic Impacts, and Cultural Impacts—and gain valuable feedback. In 2012 The Ranger’s Cottage Manly was opened by owner Felicity Stevens and is so named because it was originally inhabited by the local forest ranger over 100 years ago. The newly refurbished, fully self-contained, sunny Cottage is surrounded by iconic Australian flora and fauna and features homely interior design. The Ranger’s Cottage is serious about showcasing their commitment to sustainability, with key initiatives including: Generating their own power on site with solar Buying renewable energy Offering a compost bin to use Collecting water in rainwater tanks Using environmentally friendly cleaning products and personal care items that are refilled Providing public-transport cards Using reusable water and coffee cups “We have been on the sustainability hosting journey for over 12 years and while we’ve implemented various sustainable practices, I wanted to see how we actually measure up and identify areas where we can improve. The Scorecard provides a clear benchmark for our efforts and helps us see where we can push further to minimise our impact on the environment,” said Felicity Stevens, Property Manager at The Ranger’s Cottage Manly The Scorecard provided valuable insight into areas for improvement to ensure transparency and consistency in sustainable operating. “The Scorecard emphasised the need to clearly communicate our sustainability efforts with guests, helping them understand what we do and why. In particular, it highlighted the importance of documenting our housekeeping guides and purchasing rules,” explains Felicity Using the findings from the Scorecard, Felicity has already begun establishing new goals and priorities for long-term sustainability. For example, she plans create more channels to share with guests the ‘what’ and ‘why’ behind their sustainable practices, along with the tangible impact of guests’ actions during their stay. Felicity’s experience with the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard was so rewarding, it even motivated her to create her own website to inspire other holiday rental owners to adopt more sustainable practices. “My website features a range of guides and explanations designed to help other make sustainable changes to their homes and how they operate for guests. I hope this resource makes it easier for others to embark on their own sustainability journeys,” Felicity says. By completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, The Ranger’s Cottage Manly have taken an important step in their commitment to sustainability. Thanks to the support of Destination New South Wales and our founding partner, Tourism Australia, The Ranger’s Cottage have been empowered to contribute to a greener future for the tourism industry. You can learn more about The Rangers Cottage Manly and book your visit here The Ranger’s Cottage completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on the 22 of August 2023. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.
QuickCoast
Marine Tour OperatorCassowary Coast, FNQCompleted the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardOperating a premier ferry service to Dunk Island and onwards to the outer reef. QuickCoast offers visitors an unforgettable up close and personal small group adventures along Queensland’s Cassowary Coast.Their fast cat ferry service provides seamless access to these pristine destinations, allowing travellers to explore lush national parks, palm-fringed beaches, and vibrant marine ecosystems. From guided snorkelling safaris at Beaver Reef to private charters to Bedarra Island, QuickCoast delivers eco-conscious adventures that showcase the natural beauty of the region. With a commitment to sustainable tourism, QuickCoast undertook the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard as a first step on their sustainability journey. Their participation in the program was supported through funding from the Cassowary Coast Regional Council who have recently achieved ECO Destination Certification and has been actively advancing sustainability initiatives by assisting local operators in their sustainability journey. QuickCoast gained valuable insights into its sustainability performance through the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. The assessment confirmed that the company is already implementing strong environmental practices and reaffirmed its commitment to responsible tourism. By actively supporting local wildlife conservation, the business assists in sea creature rescue and rehabilitation while offering discounts to locals who participate in cleanup efforts at visited destinations. As a valued part of the local community, QuickCoast sponsors charity events, school fundraisers, and sporting activities, while fostering partnerships with tourism operators to enhance regional tourism and reduce carbon emissions. The business also excels in conservation efforts, minimising visitor impacts and supporting native wildlife rehabilitation. Waste reduction initiatives include avoiding single-use plastics and excessive packaging, prioritising bulk purchasing, and repurposing materials where possible. QuickCoast further enhances guest experiences by providing hands-on cultural training for staff in collaboration with Indigenous artists and environmental experts, ensuring a deeper appreciation of the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage. With support from regional and state partners, QuickCoast is on track to further elevate its sustainability credentials. The business is committed to refining its environmental strategies and working toward ECO Certification, reinforcing its role as a champion in sustainable tourism along the Cassowary Coast. By participating in the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, QuickCoast has taken a significant step toward long-term environmental stewardship while continuing to offer world-class marine experiences to visitors from around the globe. QuickCoast completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 28 May 2024. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.
Cassowary Coast Joins Global Network of ECO Certified Destinations
The Cassowary Coast is proud to announce it has achieved ECO Destination Certification through Ecotourism Australia, becoming the seventh Queensland destination and the 14th in Australia to receive this prestigious recognition. Located in Far North Queensland, just south of Cairns, the Cassowary Coast is rich in biodiversity. Home to two World Heritage-listed sites — the Wet Tropics Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef – 60% of the region’s land and marine areas are protected areas. This unique region is a haven for diverse ecosystems, supporting an incredible array of wildlife while offering breathtaking natural experiences. Ecotourism Australia CEO, Ms Elissa Keenan said “We are delighted to welcome the Cassowary Coast region to our growing cohort of ECO Certified Destinations throughout Australia. This accomplishment highlights the region's dedication to globally recognised sustainable tourism practices and strengthens its position as a leading ecotourism destination. “The Cassowary Coast region holds immense ecological and cultural significance. By offering exceptional nature-based experiences, such as those offered by ECO Certified operators Paronella Park and Mamu Tropical Skywalk, and Sustainable Tourism Certified King Reef Resort the region is championing sustainable tourism that benefits both the community and visitors alike.” The process of achieving ECO Destination Certification was led by the Cassowary Coast Regional Council in partnership with Cassowary Coast Tourism, with strong support from the community and key stakeholders and funding support through the Queensland Government’s Eco-certified Tourism Destination Program. Mayor Teresa Millwood of the Cassowary Coast Regional Council reflected on this significant achievement, stating that it is a testament to the region's dedication to conservation and responsible travel. “It has been quite the journey to achieving ECO Destination Certification on the Cassowary Coast. It’s a well-earned certification that highlights our commitment towards protecting our natural environment while promoting sustainable tourism," said Councillor Millwood. "We thank the community and the Queensland Government for their support towards this achievement which recognises the region’s dedication to preserving our rainforests, beaches, and wildlife, ensuring they can be enjoyed responsibly for generations to come.” The Queensland Government through the Department of the Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (formerly the Department of Tourism and Sport) provided grant funding in 2023-2024 for regions including Cassowary Coast across the state to achieve globally recognised eco certification. Minister for the Environment and Tourism Andrew Powell said initiatives like the Eco-certified Tourism Destination Program played a crucial role in positioning Queensland as a leader in sustainable tourism. “The funds granted through the Eco-certified Tourism Destination Program will help the Cassowary Coast stand out as a must-visit eco destination on the global map while encouraging local councils and tourism operators to showcase their environmental efforts. “The Cassowary Coast is now one of ten Queensland destinations to have received the ECO Destination Certification in what is a huge vote of confidence for the region. Initiatives like this align with Destination 2045: Queensland’s Tourism Future, our long-term tourism strategy for the state. “Queenslanders have told us loud and clear that they want to embrace tourism while keeping our natural wonders healthy, and initiatives like the ECO Destination Certification strike a balance between tourism, conservation and community well-being which will preserve our breathtaking scenery for future generations. The Cassowary Coast has a long and proud history as an ecotourism destination. Local conservationist John Busst played a pivotal role in securing protections for the Great Barrier Reef and his advocacy with others led to the establishment of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Act in 1975. The anniversary of this legacy will be celebrated in Mission Beach this year as ‘GBR50’. A legacy that continues today through initiatives including TUMRA’s (Traditional Use of Marine Resources Agreement) with Mandubarra and Girringun actively leading reef conservation alongside the Marine Park Authority, ensuring sustainable management of sea country. Building on this strong foundation, the region remains committed to sustainable tourism, with conservation and regeneration projects supported by the local community. To further these efforts, the Cassowary Coast provides online resources to guide businesses and residents in reducing their environmental footprint. 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, the Cassowary Coast joins a growing network of certified destinations in Queensland – Port Douglas Daintree, Townsville, Capricorn Coast, Gladstone Region, Bundaberg and the Scenic Rim. Through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations, the Cassowary Coast is also now part of a distinguished group of 160 certified destinations globally. Elissa Keenan is in Kurrimine and Mission Beach on Thursday to award Cassowary Coast with their official certificate and present to key stakeholders. END Media event details: Date: 10 April 2025 Time: 3.30 pm Location: King Reef Resort, Kurrimine 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 Cassowary Coast Media Contact: Zoe Holmes, A/A/Principle Communication and Engagement, e: comms@ccrc.qld.gov.au , ph: 0417 721 754
Canyonleigh Retreat
AccommodationCanyonleigh, NSWCompleted the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardNestled in the serene village of Canyonleigh, Canyonleigh Retreat offers a tranquil escape in the heart of the Southern Highlands of New South Wales. Guided by a deep commitment to sustainability, and with funding support from Destination New South Wales, Canyonleigh Retreat engaged with the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard to evaluate its environmental and social impact and identify opportunities for improvement. The Scorecard assesses the four pillar of sustainability – Sustainable Management, Environmental, Socio-economic and Cultural Impacts and provided Canyonleigh Retreat with a structured framework to evaluate and advance its sustainability efforts. "Our primary reason for undertaking the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard was to strengthen our dedication to sustainable practices. We wanted a thorough evaluation to help us better understand our current impact, pinpoint areas for growth, and drive us towards adopting more environmentally friendly and socially responsible actions that align with our core values," said Kushma Chand, Director at Canyonleigh Retreat The Scorecard report provided valuable insights, allowing the team at Canyonleigh Retreat to evaluate different sustainability areas and gain a clearer understanding of their current standing. Kushma explained, "the report was incredibly insightful. It helped us assess each section closely and identify both new requirements and areas of strength. We were pleased to see Sustainability Management highlighted as one of our key strengths. Following the report, we've connected with key individuals to shape our sustainability goals and work towards becoming a certified ecotourism operator." With the insights gained from the Scorecard, Canyonleigh Retreat has already started making improvements and setting goals for long-term sustainability. Some of these improvements include, introducing an eco-friendly woodfired fire tub as an alternative spa option and installed a solar-powered swimming pool to enhance its sustainability efforts. The on-site café has become a vibrant community hub, supporting crop bartering and offering seasonal, organically grown meals. Strengthening its cultural connections, Canyonleigh Retreat has partnered with the Aboriginal Leaders Group and will proudly host their upcoming conference. Additionally, the retreat is launching its Food Independence Workshops, aimed at educating guests on growing their own food and transitioning to a more sustainable future. "Our next steps involve working towards certification with Ecotourism Australia. More importantly, we've already initiated actions in key areas that needed improvement. While this process is ongoing, we continue refining our existing practices, recognising that sustainability is a long-term commitment to environmental stewardship," remarked Kushma. By completing the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, Canyonleigh Retreat has strengthened its commitment to sustainability and taken a significant step toward achieving globally recognised certification. The Scorecard empowers tourism businesses to embed sustainable practices into their operations, contributing to a greener future. With the support of Destination New South Wales who funded Canyonleigh Retreats Scorecard and our founding partner, Tourism Australia, we continue to champion the Strive 4 Sustainability program—encouraging more businesses to embrace sustainability and enhance their impact on the tourism industry. You can learn more about Canyonleigh Retreat and book your visit here. Canyonleigh Retreat completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 19 August 2024. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.
ECO Certified Operators Celebrate Success at National Tourism Awards
We are delighted to share that Ecotourism Australia-certified operators have won 17 awards across 10 categories from 40 finalists at the 2024 Qantas Australia Tourism Awards in Adelaide last Friday – our highest number of winners yet! Our operators achieved seven Gold, five Silver and five Bronze across 10 categories, showing the breadth of certified businesses across Australia. Most notably, Balloon Aloft Australia (Sustainable Tourism Certified) and Peppers Silo Hotel (Sustainable Tourism Certified) each won Gold in two categories, with Balloon Aloft winning the Adventure Tourism and Accessible Tourism categories, and Peppers Silo Hotel winning Business Event Venues and 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation. The Ecotourism category was well represented by our ECO Certified operators — congratulations to The Big Duck Tours for winning Silver and Busselton Jetty on their Bronze! In the Major Tour and Transport Operators and Adventure Tourism categories, our operators dominated – taking out all three awards, demonstrating how sustainability practices are relevant across many different sectors of our industry. Finally, huge congratulations go to the BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (ECO Certified) who won Gold in the Caravan and Holiday Parks Category and earned a place in the prestigious Hall of Fame for winning gold three consecutive years – a phenomenal achievement! See the full list of winners and finalists below: Major Tourist Attractions Monarto Safari Park (SA) - Finalist Tourist Attractions Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience (QLD) - Finalist Ecotourism The Big Duck Boat Tours (SA) - Silver Busselton Jetty (WA) - Bronze Aquila Eco Retreat (TAS) - Finalist Kestrel Nest EcoHut at Highfield Farm & Woodland (NSW) - Finalist Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort (QLD) - Finalist Larapinta Trail, World Expeditions | Australian Walking Holidays (NT) - Finalist Cultural Tourism Adelaide Zoo (SA) - Finalist Bungle Bungle Guided Tours (WA) - Finalist Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (QLD) - Finalist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences Wintjiri Wiru – Ayers Rock Resort (NT) - Silver Zoos Victoria – Healesville Sanctuary (VIC) - Finalist Business Event Venues Peppers Silo Hotel (TAS) - Gold Pullman Bunker Bay (WA) - Finalist Tamborine Mountain Glades (QLD) - Finalist Major Tour & Transport Operators HeliSpirit (WA) – Gold Pennicott Wilderness Journeys (TAS) - Silver Ocean Rafting (QLD) - Bronze AAT Kings (NT) - Finalist Tour & Transport Operators Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures (QLD) - Gold Spirit of the Coorong (SA) - Silver Margaret River Discovery Co (WA) - Finalist Adventure Tourism Balloon Aloft Australia (NSW) - Gold Bendleby Ranges (SA) – Silver Aquascene Magnetic Island (QLD) - Bronze Larapinta Trail, World Expeditions | Australian Walking Holidays (NT) - Finalist Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Nitmiluk Tours and Cicada Lodge (NT) - Finalist Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience (QLD) - Finalist Caravan & Holiday Parks BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD) – Gold & Hall of Fame for winning gold 3 consecutive years in this category Unique Accommodation All Seasons Houseboats (VIC) - Finalist 3-3.5 Star Accommodation Great Keppel Island Hideaway (QLD) - Finalist ibis Adelaide (SA) - Finalist 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation Peppers Silo Hotel (TAS) – Gold Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (QLD) - Bronze 5 Star Luxury Accommodation Pullman Bunker Bay (WA) - Bronze Excellence in Accessible Tourism Balloon Aloft Australia (NSW) - Gold BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD) - Finalist Busselton Jetty (WA) - Finalist
Tell your sustainability story
Mantra French Quarter Noosa, QLD. Image credit: Accor Pacific Tell your sustainability storyTravellers want to know about the initiatives you put in place to make your business more sustainable. Share your story on your website and social media to ensure it reaches the right audience — your dedication to sustainability deserves to be seen and celebrated!Here are a few ways to share your story1.Introduce yourself Start with a brief introduction outlining what sustainability means to your business. Share your vision, mission, and core values, along with any relevant policies and commitments. Highlight your certification logo(s) and explain what they represent, reinforcing your dedication to responsible tourism.2.Show your community involvement Showcase your certification logo(s) across your website, social media, and marketing materials, and take the opportunity to explain their significance. Highlight your community partnerships and sustainability efforts through your ‘About Us’ page, dedicated sustainability section, or blog. Social media is also a powerful tool to share your impact and engage your audience.3.Celebrate your wins We hope you are as proud of your achievements as we are. If you have started a conservation project, offset your emissions for the year, or made strides toward ensuring you are carbon neutral, share it with your audience.4.Involved your customers Help your customers to minimise their impact. Include hints and tips in their pre-arrival email, in-room or onsite communications and in your face-to-face interactions. People love to feel like they are part of the solution!5.Share your long-term vision Sustainability is a journey, not a destination! Visitors want to learn about what you’ve achieved already, but also what you’re working on next. Sharing your plans and dreams might just inspire them to take action, too.Celebrate your achievements Share your sustainability story through your social media channels and don't forget to tag us so we can celebrate with you. Brands who trust us
Ecotourism Australia Certified Operators Set to Shine at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards
The 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards are just around the corner, and this year a record number of Ecotourism Australia certified operators have been named as finalists across 17 categories. We are proud to have almost every state represented, with at least one certified operator nominated in each state, except for the Australian Capital Territory (ACT). Notably, in the Ecotourism category, 6 out of the 7 nominees are proudly certified by Ecotourism Australia, highlighting their commitment to providing world-class sustainable and environmentally conscious experiences. The Australian Tourism Awards have long been the nation’s premier recognition of excellence in the tourism industry, showcasing and celebrating businesses that have made outstanding contributions to the tourism sector. The awards gala will take place at 6pm on Friday 21 March at the Adelaide Convention Centre. We would like to wish our certified operators the best of luck for the awards. Your commitment to tourism excellence has set the benchmark for the industry and we look forward to celebrating your success. Finalists certified by Ecotourism Australia: Major Tourist Attractions Monarto Safari Park (SA) Zoos Victoria – Melbourne Zoo (VIC) Tourist Attractions Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience (QLD) Ecotourism Aquila Eco Retreat (TAS) Busselton Jetty (WA) Kestrel Nest EcoHut at Highfield Farm & Woodland (NSW) Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort (QLD) Larapinta Trail, World Expeditions | Australian Walking Holidays (NT) The Big Duck Boat Tours (SA) Cultural Tourism Adelaide Zoo (SA) Bungle Bungle Guided Tours (WA) Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary (QLD) Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences Wintjiri Wiru - Ayers Rock Resort (NT) Zoos Victoria – Healesville Sanctuary (VIC) Business Event Venues Tamborine Mountain Glades (QLD) Peppers Silo Hotel (TAS) Pullman Bunker Bay (WA) Major Tour & Transport Operators AAT Kings (NT) HeliSpirit (WA) Ocean Rafting (QLD) Pennicott Wilderness Journeys (TAS) Tour & Transport Operators Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures (QLD) Margaret River Discovery Co (WA) Spirit of the Coorong (SA) Adventure Tourism Aquascene Magnetic Island (QLD) Balloon Aloft Australia (NSW) Bendleby Ranges (SA) Larapinta Trail, World Expeditions | Australian Walking Holidays (NT) Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Nitmiluk Tours and Cicada Lodge (NT) Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries Bundaberg Rum Visitor Experience (QLD) Caravan & Holiday Parks BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD) Unique Accommodation All Seasons Houseboats (VIC) 3-3.5 Star Accommodation Great Keppel Island Hideaway (QLD) ibis Adelaide (SA) 4-4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort (QLD) Peppers Silo Hotel (TAS) 5 Star Luxury Accommodation Pullman Bunker Bay (WA) Excellence in Accessible Tourism Balloon Aloft Australia (NSW) BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort (QLD) Busselton Jetty (WA)
Our Purpose & Goals
Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, near Exmouth, WA. Credit: Tourism Western AustraliaOur Vision Leading tourism to be a catalyst for positive change.Our Mission As the peak body for ecotourism and sustainable tourism we connect, champion, inspire and inform through strategic partnerships and global best practice standards.Our Purpose Sustainable, nature-based tourism and ecotourism are growing in demand. Ecotourism is the lighthouse of growing sustainable tourism more broadly. We pave the way for our operators and destinations to stand out with highly appealing products that support their business viability and the social, cultural and environmental pillars in their regions. We partner with destinations and operators so they can be global best practice leaders; and we enable the broader tourism industry to build a pathway to sustainability.Our Values1.Positive We are proud of our legacy, we are optimistic and we continue to influence change as future-focused custodians for eco, regenerative and nature-based tourism.2.Integrity We work with trust, transparency and best practice standards and we help our certified operators and members create better experiences through ethical and sustainable operations and destinations.3.Respect We respect and advocate for global best practice standards and recognition of culture and we champion our operators, our team, and our sector.4.Collaborate We are one team and value our partnerships that help us connect, champion, inspire and inform our industryOur Objectives Ecotourism Australia has long been recognised as a pioneer. We are the first national ecotourism organisation in the world. We created the first ecotourism accreditation program in the world. We created the first climate change accreditation in Australia. We created the first ECO Destination Certification in Australia and the South Pacific. We are a founding member of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA). We will continue to build that legacy through new products and services to support nature-based, eco and sustainable tourism with our strategic objectives:1. Ecotourism Australia is recognised as the credible peak body for sustainable, eco, regenerative and nature-based tourism in Australia and the Pacific.2. Ecotourism Australia is proactively driving targeted partnerships and diversified revenue streams to achieve strategic outcomes.3. Ecotourism Australia’s certification products and services are the gold standard for existing and new member categories that match our peak body scope.4. Ecotourism Australia has a strategic plan supported by business systems and processes to grow; and is agile in responding to emerging opportunities and threatsWe achieve our objectives by: Designing and implementing globally recognised certification programs. Advocating for sustainable tourism and supporting our certified operators and members to promote the significant opportunities presented by eco and nature-based tourism experiences for Australia and the South Pacific. Maintaining key global partnerships including UNESCO, United Nations Tourism (formerly UNWTO) and global certifying organisations through the international Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA). Working collaboratively with key local partners including Tourism Australia, Austrade, Parks Australia, Australia’s protected area managers, WWF Australia, the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC), Caravan Industry Association of Australia, Accommodation Australia and the Australian Tourism Data Warehouse. Promoting ECO certified operators and destinations through the Green Travel Guide, assuring travellers that certified products are backed by a strong, well-managed commitment to sustainable practices and provides high quality nature-based tourism experiences. Supporting our certified operators, destinations and members with opportunities to collaborate, share and learn through conferences, forums and webinars. Our Governance Ecotourism Australia is a public company limited by guarantee, governed by a Board of Directors that is elected or appointed as per the Constitution.