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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.
Sustainable Development Goals
SDG Ecoturism Australia Sections Ecotourism Australia Criteria 1 - No Poverty 1 Business Management7 Working with local communities 1.2, 7.1a-c, 7.3a-b 2 - Zero Hunger 1 Business Management7 Working with local communities 1.2, 7.1a-c, 7.3a-b 3 - Good Health and Well-Being 1 Business Management7 Working with local communities 1.2, 1.5, 7.1a-c, 7.3a-b 4 - Quality Education 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1.2, 1.5, 4.1c, 5.4a, 6.2b, 7.1c, 8.1c, 8.2c 5 - Gender Equality 1 Business Management 1.2 6 - Clean Water and Sanitation 4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education 4.1, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 4.9h, 4.9k, 4.10e, 4.12b, 4.12f, 5.4a 7 - Affordable and Clean Energy 4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education 4.1, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 4.8c, 4.9b-f , 5.4a 8 - Decent Work and Economic Growth 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1.2, 1.5, 4.2a, 4.2c, 5.4a, 7.1a-c, 7.1c, 7.2a, 7.3a-b, 8.1b-d, 8.3a-d 9 - Industry, Innovation and Infraestructure 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 4.1a, 4.2a, 4.2c, 5.4a, 6.1a, 6.2b, 7.1a-c, 7.2a, 7.3a, 7.3b, 8.1b, 8.1d, 8.3a-d 10 - Reduced Inequalities 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1,2, 1.3, 1.5, 4.2a, 4.2c, 5.4a, 6.1a-b, 6.2a-c, 7.1a-c, 7.2a, 7.3a-c, 8.1a-c, 8.2c, 8.3a-d 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1,2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 5.1c, 5.4a, 6.1a-b, 6.2a-c, 7.1a-c, 7.2a, 7.3a-d, 8.1a, 8.2a 12 - Responsible Consumption and Production 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1,2, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.3a-d, 4.6a, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 4.9h, 4.10e, 4.12b, 4.12f, 5.1a-d, 5.4a, 6.2a-c, 7.1a-c, 8.1b, 8.1d, 8.3a-c 13 - Climate Action 2 Responsible marketing4 Environmental Management6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 2.c, 2.e, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.3a, 4.3b-d, 4.5e, 4.6a, 4.9b-f, 4.9h, 4.10e, 4.10f, 4.12a-b, 6.1a-b, 6.2a-c, 7.1a-c, 7.3a-c, 8.1b, 8.3a-c 14 - Life Below Water 2 Responsible marketing4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 2.c, 2.e, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.3a, 4.3b, 4.3c, 4.3d, 4.7b in ECO, 4.7a in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 4.6a, 4.7a-h, 4.9h, 4.9k, 4.10a, 4.10d-g, 4.11c, 4.12a-b, 4.12d-f, 5.1a-e, 5.2a, 5.3a, 5.3c-e, 5.4a-c, 6.1a-b, 6.2a-c, 7.1b, 7.2a, 7.3a-c, 8.1a-c 15 - Life on Land 2 Responsible marketing4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 2.c, 2.e, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.3a-d, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 4.7b in ECO, 4.7a in Sustainable Tourism Cert , 4.6a, 4.7a-h, 4.8a, 4.8d, 4.9e, 4.9h, 4.9k, 4.10a, 4.10d-g, 4.11b-d, 4.12a-f, 5.1a-e, 5.2a, 5.3a, 5.3c-e, 5.4a-c, 6.1a-b, 6.2a-c, 7.1b, 7.2a, 7.3a-c, 8.1a-c 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1,2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 4.1a, 4.1c, 4.2a, 4.2c, 4.5a in ECO, 4.5b in Sustainable Tourism Cert, 5.1c, 5.4a, 7.1a-c, 7.2a, 7.3a-c, 8.1a-d, 8.2a-c, 8.3a-d 17 - Partnership for the Goals 1 Business Management4 Environmental Management5 Interpretation and education6 Contribution to conservation7 Working with local communities8 Cultural respect and sensitivity 1.1, 1,2, 1.3, 1.5, 2.c, 2.e, 4.1a, 4.2a, 4.2c, 5.1c, 5.4a, 6.2, 7.1a-c, 7.2a, 7.3a-c, 8.1a-c, 8.2c, 8.3a-d
Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary
Wildlife SanctuaryPort Stephens, NSWCompleted the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardThe Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation and conservation of koalas in the wild.In partnership with the Port Stephens Koala Hospital, the sanctuary provides care for sick, injured, and orphaned koalas in the region. It promotes sustainability through recycling programs, a 'Return and Earn' initiative, and the reduction of single-use plastics by offering bulk amenities and reusable water bottles. The landscaping features native plants that require less water, supporting the local ecosystem. One of the many highlights is The Sanctuary Story Walk, a 250-meter immersive pathway designed to offer visitors of all ages a captivating and educational journey into the world of koalas. This engaging attraction deepens appreciation for these iconic creatures while fostering a greater understanding of their importance in the face of growing environmental challenges. Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary received a complimentary Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, thanks to the partnership between Destination NSW and Ecotourism Australia. The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard is a pre-certification bench marking tool assessing businesses against the 4 Pillars of Sustainability: Sustainable Management, Environmental, Socio-economic, and Cultural Impacts and is based on globally recognised sustainability criteria. James Cook, manager of Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary stated,“The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program has helped align our operations with sustainable practices. This initiative has enhanced our conservation efforts and demonstrated our commitment to preserving koalas and their natural habitat for future generations. The sanctuary aims to further improve its sustainability practices and continue providing extended care opportunities for a diverse range of native Australian wildlife in the Port Stephens region.” “Being relatively new in the conservation and preservation of wild species space, participation in Ecotourism Australia’s Strive 4 Sustainability program ensured that the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary navigated correctly through this vitally important business improvement,” said Mr. Cook. When Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, they received a detailed report providing a snapshot of their current sustainability practices, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement. They plan to use these insights to identify opportunities for further enhancing their sustainability efforts. You can learn more about Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary and book your visit here. Start your sustainability journey.
Barrington Coast Achieves Sustainability Milestone with ECO Destination Certification
MidCoast Council is proud to announce that the Barrington Coast region has achieved ECO Destination Certification through Ecotourism Australia, highlighting their dedication to protecting their environment. Located on the lower mid-north coast of New South Wales, three hours north of Sydney, the Barrington Coast is a haven for nature lovers and home to incredible landscapes such as the World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of the Barrington Tops and the Ramsar Convention designated wetland of international importance the Myall lakes. This milestone makes the Barrington Coast the fifth destination in New South Wales and the 13th in Australia to receive this distinguished recognition. "We’re incredibly excited to welcome the Barrington Coast region as our newest certified ECO Destination,” said Ecotourism Australia CEO, Ms. Elissa Keenan. "Led by the wonderful team at MidCoast Council, this achievement highlights the region’s commitment to adhering to global best practice sustainable tourism. Alongside achieving ECO Destination Certification, the region has actively supported local operators to achieve business certification or to complete our pre-certification benchmarking tool, the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard,” Ms Keenan said. Support for the certification program was also provided from WWF-Australia's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWF-Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help 11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism. “Our ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia highlights our continued commitment and progress towards a more sustainable tourism industry, while creating more attractive experiences for locals and visitors,” said Mayor Claire Pontin. MidCoast Council has implemented a wide range of sustainability initiatives including developing a Climate Action Strategy to achieve Net Zero targets by 2040, installing over 200kW of solar panels across 10 public buildings, holding water resilience workshops, and replacing printed visitor information booklets with QR codes that link to interactive online guides. Destination NSW Acting CEO Karen Jones said: “Destination NSW congratulates Barrington Coast on achieving ECO Destination Certification—an achievement that reflects the region’s deep commitment to sustainability across environmental, cultural, and socio-economic dimensions. "By embracing global best practices, Barrington Coast is not only protecting its extraordinary natural landscapes but also strengthening local businesses’ role in sustainable tourism. "This milestone reinforces the region’s position as a premier destination for nature-based experiences in NSW, and Destination NSW is proud to support its ongoing efforts to safeguard these assets for future generations." 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 Barrington Coast joins a growing network of certified destinations in New South Wales - Bellingen Shire, the Blue Mountains, Central Coast and Coffs Harbour. Through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations, Barrington Coast is also now part of a distinguished group of 160 certified destinations globally. Ecotourism Australia’s Stakeholder Engagement Manager, Myv Costelloe, is in Taree today to award Barrington Coast with their official certificate and present to key stakeholders. END Media event details: Date: Wednesday 12 February 2025 Time: 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm Location: First Steps Count, 4 Myall Avenue Taree 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 Find out more about the Barrington Coast on the Green Travel Guide.
Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance Launched by World’s Leading Travel & Tourism Certification Organisations
The world’s leading travel & tourism Certification Organisations have announced the launch of the Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance (TSCA), a registered association dedicated to fostering a global tourism industry that thrives on sustainability. With sustainability being embraced by all major industries, travel and tourism businesses are calling for simpler solutions to assist with sustainable management, attaining independent certification, and achieving continuous improvement. At the same time, the popularity of sustainability is causing a proliferation of greenwashing and targeting travellers with unsubstantiated green claims. TSCA Chairperson, Elissa Keenan said, “Our industry and travellers are demanding a transparent system of certification that can be trusted to promote the best in sustainable tourism and eliminate greenwashing. The TSCA has been incorporated by its founding members as a collaborative certification platform for the tourism industry and to ensure that travellers make informed choices based on reliable sustainability standards.” Under this new alliance, the TSCA has established a minimum sustainable tourism standard, which serves as the baseline that all members will align with. This standard, alongside independent auditing procedures ensures consistency and credibility in sustainability management. The minimum standard will continue to serve all currently certified businesses and destinations while providing a unified system to meet the growing demand for independent certification of sustainable tourism management and performance. The next steps for the TSCA will be to assist tourism businesses in satisfying the requirements of emerging consumer protection legislation, such as the upcoming EU Green Claims Directive introduced to eradicate greenwashing. To provide greater access to certification for more tourism businesses, the TSCA will continue to streamline systems and refine and align reporting standards, criteria, benchmarks, and other requirements related to certification. By growing the number of certified businesses, travel consumers will benefit from being able to purchase travel options with green credentials independently audited and supported by documented evidence. TSCA Chairperson, Elissa Keenan added, “Collectively, TSCA members are responsible for certifying more than 19,000 travel and tourism enterprises, organisations, and destinations. For over 30 years, the world’s most recognised travel brands and destinations have relied on us to provide independent and creditable certification of their sustainable practices. The trust and recognition we have built over decades, with businesses and travellers alike, is the ongoing legacy the TSCA will build on to ensure that travel & tourism remains a positive force for communities, enterprises, and the environment.” END For Media Enquiries (international):info@tourismsustainability.org tourismsustainability.org For Media Enquiries (Australia): Ecotourism Australia Media Contact: communications@ecotourism.org.au, ph: 07 3256 6777 About TSC Alliance The Tourism Sustainability Certifications Alliance is an association of leading sustainable travel and tourism certification organisations from around the world. Its founding members include Biosphere: Instituto de Turismo Responsable; Ecotourism Australia; Foundation for Environmental Education (Blue Flag and Green Key); Good Travel Seal; Green Globe Certification, Green Key Global; TourCert; Travelife for Accommodation; and Travelife for Tour Operators. For over 30 years, this group of leading internationally recognised certification organisations has been responsible for developing the industry’s best practice standards in sustainable tourism. Together, these organisations certify more than 19,000 of the world’s leading travel and tourism companies, organisations and destinations. The TSCA was formed to address best practices and improve cooperation between organisations on a global scale. Ecotourism Australia holds the inaugural chair of the TSCA. Image: (from left) Billy Bishop – Travelife for Accommodation; Daniel Schaffer – FEE; Patricio Azcárate Díaz de Losada – Biosphere: Instituto de Turismo Responsable; Elissa Keenan – Ecotourism Australia; Naut Kusters – Travelife for Tour Operators; Birte Pelayo – Green Globe Certification; Gary Graham – Green Key Global; Albert Salman – Good Travel Seal; Marco Giraldo – Tourcert.
Botanic Apartments Warrnambool
Self-contained accommodationWarrnambool, VICCompleted the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardBotanic Apartments Warrnambool offers centrally located accommodation with self-contained and serviced apartments that emphasise sustainable practices. Achieving an impressive 91 per cent on their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard, the apartments demonstrate a strong commitment to reducing environmental impact. Key initiatives include highly insulated rooms with double glazing, in-room recycling facilities, energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, solar power generation, and EV charging stations, making them a standout choice for eco-conscious travellers. Owner-operator Linda Close first heard about the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard while attending the 2023 Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism Conference, where other businesses shared that the Scorecard was a valuable tool for assessing their sustainable practices. Ecotourism Australia has over 30 years of experience in certifying tourism businesses and is a leader in the industry. The Scorecard is a pre-certification benchmarking tool, based on globally recognised sustainability criteria, that assesses your business practices and guides you as you begin your sustainability journey. “I was confident in our sustainable operations, but I was looking to have our practices assessed and verified by a respected and independent organisation,” Linda explained. Studio Apartment at Botanic Apartments Linda said, “We liked the evidence-based approach of the Scorecard and felt it provided a solid framework for assessing our sustainable practices. It encouraged us to consolidate our efforts, policies and initiatives in one place and to formalise some of our approaches into an over-arching Environmental Management Policy.” She continued by saying, “We cater to both the corporate and leisure markets. We are increasingly hearing from our corporate and leisure guests alike that they value accommodation providers that have tangible sustainable processes in place. Our corporate guests are looking to partner with other sustainable businesses for their accommodation needs. The Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard has allowed us to showcase our environmentally sound practices.” Linda highly recommends the program to other businesses saying, “Participating in the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard was rewarding, and we recommend it to other businesses looking to assess their sustainability practices.” Living room interior design at Botanic Apartments You can learn more about Botanic Apartments Warrnambool and book your stay here.Start your sustainability journey.
Scenic Rim region achieves globally-recognised ECO Destination Certification
The Scenic Rim region has proudly announced its achievement of ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, underscoring its strong commitment to sustainable tourism. As the first destination to achieve certification in 2025, the Scenic Rim becomes the sixth in Queensland and the 12th in Australia to earn this prestigious recognition. Located an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana rainforests, dramatic landscapes and six National Parks. Visitors can immerse themselves in nature, savour award-winning local produce, and experience the region’s warm hospitality. Ecotourism Australia CEO Ms Elissa Keenan congratulated Scenic Rim for achieving ECO Destination Certification. “As a hub for ecotourism, the Scenic Rim is home to iconic pioneers like Binna Burra Lodge, O'Reilly's Rainforest Retreat, Mount Barney Lodge, and Araucaria Ecotours, alongside a further nine Ecotourism Australia-certified businesses offering exceptional sustainable experiences for eco-conscious travellers. “We are immensely proud of the Scenic Rim’s commitment to promoting responsible travel and showcasing the region’s breathtaking natural beauty and biodiversity. “This certification underscores the Scenic Rim’s dedication to implementing sustainable tourism strategies aligned with global best-practice standards. By fostering high-quality nature-based experiences and advancing sustainable destination management, the region strengthens its position as a leader in responsible tourism,” Ms Keenan said. Scenic Rim Mayor Tom Sharp said, “Tourism is one of the Scenic Rim’s most valuable industries. Achieving ECO Destination Certification reinforces our commitment to sustainable practices, creating better places for locals and visitors alike. This recognition inspires deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving our extraordinary landscapes.” This significant milestone was led by Scenic Rim Regional Council in collaboration with local tourism operators and stakeholders. The certification process was made possible through support from the Queensland Government and WWF-Australia. The Queensland Government through the Department of Environment, Tourism, Science and Innovation (formerly the Department of Tourism and Sport) provided grant funding in 2023-2024 for regions across the state to undertake or complete ECO Destination Certification. Support for the program was also provided from WWF-Australia's Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. Following the Black Summer bushfires, WWF-Australia partnered with Ecotourism Australia to help 11 bushfire-affected regions build back better through ecotourism. “This achievement would not have been possible without the strong partnership between Council and Ecotourism Australia, as well as essential funding support from both the Queensland Government and WWF Australia,” Mayor Sharp said. This certification aligns with the Queensland Government’s ambition to become a global leader in ecotourism. Certification will help the Scenic Rim leverage the growth in demand for nature-based tourism, foster job creation, and enhance community services and facilities – including leveraging the tourism opportunities of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. 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 Scenic Rim joins a global network of more than 160 destinations in 60 countries through Ecotourism Australia’s partnership with Green Destinations. END 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 Scenic Rim Regional Council media contact: Jennifer Stockman, Principal Specialist Communication and Marketing, e: Jennifer.St@scenicrim.qld.gov.au, ph: 0400 031 285
Walking Lightly: A Greener Path with Life’s an Adventure
Life’s an Adventure is an Australian walking tour company that exemplifies ecotourism excellence. Renowned for their pack-free walking experiences, they provide unforgettable journeys through some of Australia’s most breathtaking landscapes. Guests can immerse themselves in nature while enjoying locally sourced cuisine, fine wines, and carefully curated accommodations, creating the perfect blend of adventure and comfort. As an Ecotourism Australia Certified Operator and Green Travel Leader, Life’s an Adventure has proudly maintained their ECO certification for over a decade. The company embodies responsible travel through their conservation efforts, community collaboration, and climate advocacy, and integrate eco-friendly practices across their tours, fostering sustainability through innovative initiatives. One standout initiative is the Conservation Custodians program, which invites guests to actively participate in preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the regions they explore. This program offers a hands-on approach to conservation, engaging participants in activities like habitat restoration and biodiversity research, creating a meaningful connection to the environment. Developed in collaboration with land managers, Traditional Owners, scientists, and other experts, the program delivers meaningful environmental benefits while enriching the guest experience. Guides provide valuable insights into the ecosystems and cultural significance of each area, helping participants see the impact of their contributions. In 2024, the program debuted its first major project in Tasmania’s Tarkine region in collaboration with the Bookend Trust and NatureTrackers. Guests can participate in the Claws on the Line program dedicated to monitoring and protecting endangered freshwater crayfish species. They record data through the iNaturalist platform supporting vital research aimed at protecting these remarkable creatures and their habitats. Blue Freshwater Crayfish "This program addresses the growing demand for travel experiences that give back to the environment," says Company Director Mark Norek. "It’s a testament to why we’ve held Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification since 2011." Life’s an Adventure’s unwavering dedication to sustainability has positioned the company as a leader in responsible travel. Through its Conservation Custodians program, community initiatives, and advocacy for climate action, the company inspires travellers and stakeholders to embrace ecotourism as a force for positive change. You can discover more about Life’s an Adventure on the Green Travel Guide.
Why Sustainability Should Be Your Top Priority in 2025
As we enter 2025, it is evident that sustainability isn’t just a buzzword - it’s a business essential. With 75% of global travellers saying they want to travel more sustainably over the next 12 months (Booking.com 2024 Sustainable Travel report), it’s clear that responsible travel is here to stay. Is your tourism business prepared to meet this growing demand? If not, now is the perfect time to act. Inspired by our Certified operators, here are five impactful steps you can take to make your business more sustainable in the coming year, improve your reputation, and attract more eco-friendly travellers. 1) Reduce your environmental impact: Adopt energy-efficient technologies, reduce waste, and minimise water usage to lessen your environmental impact. For example, Crystal Creek Meadows (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified, Green Travel Leader) in Kangaroo Valley, NSW utilises solar panels, waste management systems, and water irrigation, while also implementing regeneration programs to enhance wildlife habitats and gardens. 2) Support Local Communities: Partner with local suppliers and engage in initiatives that give back to the community. For instance, YHA Adelaide Central (Sustainable Tourism Certified) organises “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 fostering a sense of social responsibility. 3) Collaborate with First Nations Communities: Connect with First Nations people in your area to respectfully integrate their cultural heritage and stories into your offerings. Take inspiration from Ayers Rock Resort (Advanced Ecotourism and ROC Certified), where responsible tourism is deeply rooted in maintaining respectful relationships with the Anangu people and their land. By working closely with Traditional Owners, the Resort has created meaningful initiatives such as Wintjiri Wiru, a drone, laser, and light show that shares a chapter of the ancestral Mala story. They also support Indigenous education, health, employment, and tourism initiatives, demonstrating how respectful collaboration can preserve cultural heritage. 4) Offer Eco-Friendly Experiences Design activities that promote nature appreciation, and minimal environmental disruption to attract eco-conscious travellers. For instance, Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park (Ecotourism Certified and Green Travel Leader) in Victoria offers tours that educate visitors about endangered species and sustainable practices, encouraging responsible tourism while minimising environmental impact. 5) Educate Guests on Responsible Tourism: Share your sustainability practices with guests through clear communication. Include information about eco-friendly initiatives in your marketing materials throughout the customer journey as well as on-site. Highlight key actions like waste reduction, water conservation, and community engagement, showing visitors how they can contribute to sustainability during their stay. Wildlife Adventures Melbourne (Advanced Ecotourism and Climate Action Certified) has a fantastic sustainability section on their website. Check it out for inspiration. As sustainability becomes a top priority for travellers in 2025, is your business ready to meet the growing demand? Join the movement by becoming certified with Ecotourism Australia. It’s a proven way to enhance your sustainability efforts and attract eco-conscious travellers. Reach out today at eco@tourismaustralia.org.au or call 07 3256 6777 to start your certification journey and set your business up for success in the year ahead.