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Ecotourism Australia launches inaugural Global Sustainable Tourism Summit in Brisbane
Ecotourism Australia, the peak national body for nature-based and sustainable tourism, will hold its 2024 Global Sustainable Tourism Summit in Meeanjin/Brisbane from Tuesday 4 – Thursday 6 June. Hosted at the Pullman Mercure Brisbane King George Square, which was one of the first hotels in Australia to achieve Sustainable Tourism Certification from Ecotourism Australia, the event will position sustainability at the forefront to inspire and empower tourism businesses and industry. Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive, Elissa Keenan, said Ecotourism Australia is proud to deliver the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit to support tourism stakeholders on their sustainability journey. “The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will be key to raising the importance and uptake of sustainability actions across the Australian visitor economy by championing the leaders and problem-solvers who are delivering world’s best practice. “We are delighted to feature a high calibre of speakers on our inaugural Summit program to discuss the critical risks and significant opportunities for sustainable tourism and to share insights, learnings and leading case-study examples with more than 260 delegates.” Accor Pacific’s Chief Operating Officer, Adrian Williams PM&E, said they are proud to be supporting the Summit as a Partner sponsor. “Accor is the largest hotel operator in Australia and we love playing a leading role in inspiring new standards for sustainable tourism in the hotel industry. I truly believe that the path to a more sustainable hospitality model begins with collaboration. Forming and nurturing the right partnerships with high-impact organisations, like Ecotourism Australia, is essential to help achieve our ambitious sustainability goals. We are so honoured to be a partner of their Global Sustainable Tourism Summit and are looking forward to coming together with other industry leaders in June to work towards our common goal of responsible hospitality.” Pivotal discussions will follow the event’s theme, “People, Planet, Place, Purpose” based on the four pillars of sustainability: environment, socio-economic, culture, and management. Over the course of two conference days on 5 and 6 June, keynote speakers and panellists will delve into some of the most critical topics for the industry such as sustainable cruising, aviation, wildlife tourism, collaborating with indigenous stakeholders, and global consumer and industry trends, while considering the risks and opportunities for eco and sustainable tourism. More than 60 speakers are featured on the program including Chief Frank Antoine (Bonaparte First Nation, Canada), Bede Fennell (Tourism Australia), David Young (Accor Pacific), Annette Sharpe (Intrepid Travel), Cliff Cobbo (WWF-Australia), Matt Cameron-Smith (Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia), Michelle Degenhardt (Flight Centre Travel Group) and Paul McGrath (YHA Ltd), in addition to myriad ECO Certified and Sustainable Tourism Certified operators and destination representatives, showcasing the latest innovations and global best-practice sustainability examples. The Global Sustainable Tourism Summit will host more than 260 tourism industry professionals in Brisbane including tourism operators, destination managers, state and regional tourism organisation representatives, government officials, national parks agencies, academics, and industry association leaders. The event kicks off on Tuesday 4 June with a Sustainability Tour of applicant ECO Destination, Scenic Rim, and a Welcome Function at the Pullman’s Sixteen Antler’s Rooftop Bar, ahead of the main two-day Summit program. A World Environment Day Cocktail Function on Wednesday 5 June, hosted in partnership with Queensland Tourism Industry Council, will also offer networking opportunity for delegates. This is the inaugural Global Sustainable Tourism Summit and follows Ecotourism Australia’s previous Global ECO Conference, one of the world’s longest running ecotourism conferences. Learn more about the Global Sustainable Tourism Summit program and speakers here: www.ecotourism.org.au/conference END Media contact: Ecotourism Australia – Georgie Snare, Communications and Events Officer e: georgie@ecotourism.org.au ph: 07 3256 6777
CoastXP
Marine and Whale Watching Tours Mulubinba/Newcastle & Awabakal/Lake Macquarie, NSW Completed the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard Experience the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie coastline and its marine life with CoastXP aboard one of their two custom-built vessels. They offer various tours on the water as well as on land depending on the season. While whale-watching tours can be joined during the colder months, trips to Catherine Hill Bay, adventure boat rides, as well as lake cruises and nature walks through the Lake Macquarie State Conservation Area are programmed during the warmer months. The focus of these tours is on marine life, local geology, Aboriginal heritage, maritime history, and key destination landmarks such as cliffs, islands, sea caves and ships. On all their tours education is combined with fun and adventure! “At CoastXP we participate in a broad range of sustainability activities. The main reason we were attracted to the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard was that it allowed us to audit the initiatives we’re already undertaking in our business and see further opportunities for sustainable tourism exploration and implementation,” explains Dom, the founder of CoastXP. The Scorecard gave them a deeper understanding of sustainable tourism principles and practices. They found some areas of sustainability were already addressed in their current activities, while others still needed more attention, particularly surrounding the need to implement new policies to support their business’ sustainability. Furthermore, involving their team in the sustainable tourism conversation and decision-making is something they want to improve in the future. “The process was clearly broken down into digestible sections, which meant we could work on our submission, save our progress and return to it at any time. Each section had a brief description of what was expected, and we could submit as much or as little as we liked. There was no right or wrong. I enjoyed that we could tackle it at our own pace," says Dominic about his experience with the Scorecard. After completing the Scorecard, the submitted answers and documentation are assessed by an expert coach from Ecotourism Australia. According to Dominic, the coach’s remarks were comprehensive and suggested additional content and useful templates that could be included in CoastXP’s existing business plan, as well as new policies that they could add to their operations. Another helpful insight for them was to engage more with their local suppliers which they are passionate about continuing in the future. CoastXP is committed to sustainability, community engagement and responsible tourism, which they communicate on their website. They want to minimise their environmental impact and support the well-being of the community, for example by offering a carbon offset alternative for passengers on every one of their tours. As the next steps on their journey, they now want to work with their team on the new ideas they received through the Scorecard. They also plan to use the Scorecard to promote their results and their active involvement in sustainable practices. CoastXP completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 29 April 2024 and is a snapshot of their current sustainability practices. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion. Start your sustainability journey.POWERED BYFOUNDING PARTNER
Novotel Darwin CBD named first Sustainable Tourism Certified urban business in Northern Territory
Novotel Darwin CBD has met globally recognised sustainable tourism standards to become the first hotel in the Northern Territory to achieve Ecotourism Australia’s prestigious Sustainable Tourism Certification and the eighth Accor property in Australia to be certified. The hotel joins a growing cohort of sustainability focused accommodations across Australia seeking independent validation of their sustainability activities. The Sustainable Tourism Certification supports urban businesses and is an additional program to Ecotourism Australia’s foundational ECO Tourism Certification which supports nature-based tourism businesses across Australia. There are 24 ECO Certified Operators in the Northern Territory, including the Accor-managed Cooinda Lodge Kakadu which has been ECO Certified since 2005. Novotel Darwin CBD have met international best practice sustainable tourism standards across eight criteria sections including environmental management, interpretation and education, working with local communities, and cultural respect and sensitivity. Chief Operating Officer Accor Pacific, Adrian Williams, said; "We are immensely proud of Novotel Darwin CBD for achieving Ecotourism Australia’s Sustainable Tourism Certification, marking a significant milestone as the first urban hotel in the Northern Territory to meet these globally recognised standards. This achievement underscores our commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism. “Novotel Darwin CBD exemplifies our dedication to environmental stewardship, community engagement, and cultural respect. As the eighth Accor property to receive this certification, it joins a growing network of Accor hotels leading the way in sustainable tourism across Australia. We will continue to strive for excellence in sustainability and set new benchmarks for the industry." Alex Murray, General Manager at Novotel Darwin CBD said they have worked diligently to improve their sustainability initiatives across the entire hotel, and they were proud to announce their certification achievement. “The Novotel Darwin CBD is committed to preserving this unique ecosystem and support our local community with minimized impact to our environment. “Our hotel is situated on the lands of the Larrakia people, and we actively engage with the local community to promote opportunities to learn about their rich history, traditions, and art. “The Novotel Darwin CBD is motivated to continue identifying innovative sustainable solutions to ensure we preserve the ecosystem for future generations.” Ecotourism Australia Chief Executive Officer, Elissa Keenan said the organisation was pleased to recognise Novotel Darwin CBD for their significant sustainability efforts with certification. “Novotel Darwin CBD have established themselves as an urban sustainable tourism leader by becoming the first Sustainable Tourism Certified hotel in the Northern Territory. They join 24 ECO Certified operators in the Northern Territory who have achieved global best practice in sustainability. “It is excellent to see tourism businesses take up the baton and pursue globally recognised certification which ensures they minimise negative impacts on the environment and maximise positive outcomes for community, culture and local economy.” Minister for Tourism and Hospitality Joel Bowden congratulated Novotel Darwin CBD on achieving certification for Sustainable Tourism. “Embracing sustainable tourism gives businesses a competitive advantage, attracting responsible travellers who prioritise eco-friendly travel options while making a positive impact on their local communities as well as improving efficiency in their business and reducing costs. “Travellers want sustainable travel options and Novotel Darwin have set the benchmark in achieving their certification and will inspire more businesses to work towards sustainability.” The Sustainable Tourism Certification program was launched by Ecotourism Australia in late 2022 to provide non-nature based tourism businesses the opportunity to achieve credible and independently verified certification that meets globally recognised sustainable tourism standards. Last year, Ecotourism Australia and Accor entered into a strategic partnership to independently certify their Australian and Pacific properties as Sustainable Tourism Certified or ECO Certified. There are more than 170 Accor properties currently applying for Ecotourism Australia certification programs and eight have achieved Ecotourism Australia’s Sustainable Tourism Certification standard. Learn more about Novotel Darwin CBD on the Green Travel Guide: https://greentravelguide.org/listing/novotel-darwin-cbd ENDS Media Contact: Ecotourism Australia: Georgie Snare, Communications and Events Officer, (e): georgie@ecotourism.org.au (ph): 07 3256 6777
Yurt Hideaway
Glamping Accommodation Bunurong Country / Tootgarook, Victoria Completed the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard On the Mornington Peninsula, a bespoke glamping experience awaits guests for a romantic couple’s getaway or a rejuvenating personal retreat. Yurt Hideaway is tucked into the beachside town of Tootgarook, which allows guests to enjoy their privacy while discovering this buzzing tourist destination. Mornington Peninsula is just one hour from Melbourne and wins people over with its shallow waters, beaches, hot springs, boutiques, wineries, and restaurants. The accommodation is a genuine Mongolian yurt handmade from traditional materials. The spacious round room, private bathroom, outdoor kitchenette, and seating are down to earth, yet have a luxurious feel to them. Natural, eco-friendly products for the guests’ basic needs add to the authentic flair. After first hearing about the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard from ECO Certified operator, Wild Adventures Melbourne, Yurt Hideaway completed the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard to understand their sustainability activities and how they could improve. “I wanted to know how we are doing sustainability-wise. It is a strong interest of mine and I had thought of everything I could to make the space eco-friendly, but I wanted to see if there was more, we could do to improve”, explains Kelly, the owner of Yurt Hideaway. Kelly noted the Scorecard provided her with an increased understanding of sustainability in business management, including of the expectations and documentation behind tracking and maintaining high standards. Kelly describes the application process as detailed, but simple to follow as progress is easily tracked and it can be broken into multiple small sessions if needed. For Yurt Hideaway, being recognised for their sustainability efforts is important. “I am really happy with our score (and hope to improve it next time) and think the score is a really important way to communicate how sustainable our offering is.” One of the guiding principles of Yurt Hideaway is zero waste. They aim for consumables to be natural in biodegradable or compostable packaging. Suppliers and partners are selected due to their sustainability focus, ethically sourced, natural products, and being a local business. Where possible second-hand and upcycling are chosen and high-quality, long-lasting items and furnishings are purchased. Their scorecard can be found on the business's website along with their efforts in sustainability. Kelly commented on some of the sustainability initiatives they are most proud of: “The solar panels were even more beneficial than I expected when we took the time to measure them in terms of CO2 reduction. I also love that we have a connection with 15 Trees and our local MP Koalas group to supply them with trees for planting for every guest who books with us. It is a very rewarding way to give back to the local environment and community.” The Scorecard provided them with useful insights and ideas that they are keen to start implementing. Kelly would like to retake the Scorecard in the future to reflect on their improvement and guide them further on their sustainability journey! Click here to learn more about Yurt Hideaway’s sustainable efforts, and book your stay: https://yurthideaway.com.au/sustainability/ Compass Hut completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 24 January 2024 and is a snapshot of their current sustainability practices. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.Start your sustainability journey.POWERED BYFOUNDING PARTNER
Townsville region achieves globally recognised tourism sustainability certification
The Townsville region has met globally recognised sustainability standards to achieve ECO Destination Certification at the Nature Tourism level with Ecotourism Australia. Townsville is the third destination in Queensland and the ninth in Australia to become an ECO Destination, solidifying the region as a leader in sustainable ecotourism. It was funded to achieve the certification under the Queensland Government’s Eco-certified Tourism Destination Program which provided grants to councils and regional and local tourism organisations to support attainment of the high level ECO Destination Certification. Situated at the doorstep of two World Heritage Areas, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics, Townsville is a hub for iconic nature-based tourism experiences. The region boasts an incredible percentage of protected natural areas with 82 percent of its surface area managed to foster thriving natural values. Townsville region is also home to the popular tourist destination, Magnetic Island, and the internationally important Bowling Green Bay Ramsar Wetland. “Ecotourism Australia is pleased to award ECO Destination Certification to the Townsville region,” said Ecotourism Australia Head of Destinations and Member Services, Ms Alyssa Sanders. “Being adjacent to such remarkable environmentally and culturally significant natural wonders, it is important for, and indeed a responsibility of, the local tourism industry and all who visit and reside in Townsville to adhere to strong sustainability principles. “Townsville’s ECO Destination Certification not only inspires tourism businesses to implement responsible practices and achieve formal recognition, it also helps communicate expectations to tourists, and enhances visitor and community engagement with local sustainability initiatives.” The region is committed to boosting the sustainability of its tourism product and eight local businesses are Certified through Ecotourism Australia’s globally recognised business programs. One of Townsville’s top attractions, Billabong Sanctuary, holds Advanced Ecotourism Certification and is part of Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame for more than 20 years of continuous ECO Certification. Additionally, Townsville City Council operates the Advanced Ecotourism Certified Eco Catchment Tours, providing educational and interactive tours to enhance the local community’s connection to the area’s diverse land- and coastal-scapes. The Certification application was led by Townsville City Council with collaboration from key stakeholders including Townsville Enterprise Limited, Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority. The Council’s commitment to their community in achieving a sustainability-driven future for tourism has been clear throughout the application process. Townsville Mayor Troy Thompson said he was proud to see the region achieve ECO Destination recognition from Ecotourism Australia. “Council is incredibly proud to have worked with Ecotourism Australia, Townsville Enterprise and our other key stakeholders to secure ECO Destination Certification for our city,” Cr Thompson said. “As a Council we are continuously working to enhance our existing tourism offerings and creating new landmark tourism destinations, capitalising on our city’s position between the rainforest, wetlands and the Great Barrier Reef. “We are thrilled to have achieved ECO Destination Certification and are looking forward to seeing how tourism and hospitality businesses across Townsville go the extra mile to showcase our city well into the future.” Townsville Enterprise Limited Director of Visitor Economy and Marketing, Lisa Woolfe, congratulates Townsville City Council on the collaborative approach to securing this globally recognised sustainability certification for the city. “With more than 76% of people wanting to travel sustainability, today’s announcement demonstrates Townsville's credibility on a global scale to meet current and future visitor demand.” “Townsville Enterprise is proud to have built our region’s destination brand “Townsville North Queensland - Up for Unexpected” to not only drivesustainable visitor growth but has also provided a strong foundation of research that supported the accreditation process.” “We acknowledge the significant efforts from our eight Ecotourism certified operators who have heralded this title for a number of years, and continue to pave the way for the rest of our tourism industry.” “Our region has always been at the forefront of sustainable industries, eco-tourism along with our strengths and potential in renewable energy, positions Townsville North Queensland as Australia’s most liveable green city.” Queensland is transitioning towards a sustainable visitor economy, with a vision to be recognised as a global leader in sustainability and ecotourism. Tourism and Events Queensland CEO, Patricia O’Callaghan said that this is a major milestone reached for the region and Queensland. “Congratulations to the Townsville region on this wonderful achievement. “The region is a nature-based tourism hub with two World Heritage Areas, the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics as it’s backyard. “This is the third destination in Queensland to become ECO Certified and it’s a testament to the dedication of the region to increase their formal sustainability credentials. “Queensland is proud to have the most ECO Certified tourism businesses in Australia, which underscores our industry’s dedication to environmentally responsible management of our stunning natural resources, while also providing visitors from across the globe the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of Queensland.” Townsville City Council was a recipient of the Queensland Government Department of Tourism and Sport’s Eco-Certified Tourism Destination Grant in 2022 to expand their destination sustainability certification. Member for Townsville Scott Stewart said this certification helped bring even more eyes to the great tourism experiences in the region like Magnetic Island. “The Queensland Government is working to position Queensland and our tourism destinations as leaders in sustainable tourism. “It is great to see Townsville has achieved ECO Destination Certification under the program which provided up to $150 000 to eligible applicants to achieve certification. “In line with Towards Tourism 2032 this program will help our tourism destinations meet a growing demand from tourists for the places they visit to prioritise low impact travel, a high quality nature based experiences and an ongoing commitment to sustainability.” ECO Destination Certification at Nature Tourism level assesses 81 criteria centred on the four pillars of sustainability: sustainable management, environmental, socio-economic and cultural. The Certification is adapted from the Green Destinations standard, which is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. By becoming an ECO Destination, Townsville joins a network of more than 200 international destinations promoting sustainable management, responsible tourism, and positive socio-economic, environmental and cultural impacts. Ecotourism Australia’s Head of Destinations, Alyssa Sanders, is in Townsville today at the ECO Destination Certification Announcement event to award Townsville City Council with their official certificate and present to key stakeholders. Learn more about ECO Destination Townsville on the Green Travel Guide: https://www.greentravelguide.org/destination/townsville ENDS Media Contact: Ecotourism Australia: Georgie Snare, Communications and Events Officer, (e): georgie@ecotourism.org.au (ph): 07 3256 6777 Townsville City Council: Danaella Wivell, Senior Media Officer - Community Engagement, (e): danaella.wivell@townsville.qld.gov.au (ph): 07 4417 5108 (m): 0409 264 974
Bellingen Shire achieves prestigious ECO Destination Certification
The Bellingen Shire has received recognition for its commitment to global sustainability standards announcing they have been awarded Ecotourism Australia’s prestigious ECO Destination Certification. The region joins an elite cohort of eight Australian destinations dedicated to sustainable tourism and is the fourth in New South Wales to achieve this significant feat. Through Ecotourism Australia’s certification partner Green Destinations, Bellingen Shire is also recognised in a global network of more than 200 leading sustainable destinations. The Shire is renowned for its stunning coastal scapes, dramatic waterfalls and World Heritage-listed rainforest scenery with State Forests and National Park covering more than half of the local government area, making it a haven for ecotourism and nature-based tourism activities. Following the 2019/20 Summer Bushfires, the destination joined the certification program with support from the World Wide Fund for Nature-Australia’s (WWF) Australian Wildlife and Nature Recovery Fund. With its adherence to sustainability principles, this latest ECO Destination continues to help the region build back better through ecotourism. “We congratulate Bellingen Shire on their achievement of ECO Destination Certification. This is a significant milestone on the region’s sustainability journey, and a recognition of their commitment to sustainable tourism practices,” said Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan. “Maximising positive benefits for the community and nature through sustainable tourism experiences is a core objective of our ECO Destination Certification and we look forward to ongoing partnership with Bellingen Shire as they support their own industry to adopt sustainable tourism practices and Certification.” The Certification application was led by the Bellingen Shire Council with collaboration and support from a variety of stakeholders including Gumbaynggirr representatives, National Parks and Forestry, business chambers and the local community throughout the application process. “Today marks a significant milestone - this certification formally acknowledges our strong, well-managed commitment to sustainability and high-quality nature-based tourism,” said Bellingen Shire Mayor Cr Stephen Allan. “Council and our community are proudly focussed on sustainable tourism that benefits businesses, locals and visitors alike. This is about us asking our visitors to join us in protecting our natural treasures and honouring our cultural heritage. “We look forward to continuing the partnership with Ecotourism Australia and working with our local business community as they adopt their own sustainable tourism practices. We’re all on a continuous learning journey together.” Meeting 90 criteria to achieve the globally recognised certification at the Ecotourism level, assures travellers that the destination is genuinely committed to holistic sustainability and providing high-quality nature-based and sustainable tourism experiences within the region. “We’re pleased to see the Bellingen community placing such a strong focus on tourism experiences that are good for people and nature,” said Darren Grover, WWF-Australia’s Acting Chief Conservation Officer. “We know there are a growing number of travellers who are hungry for nature-based tourism experiences, so we must ensure this industry is made as sustainable and nature positive as possible.” "Bellingen Shire's achievement of ECO Destination Certification is a fantastic accomplishment," said Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox. "This prestigious recognition showcases their commitment to sustainable practices and positions them as a leader in ecotourism. With the addition of Bellingen Shire, NSW now has four ECO certified destinations to help meet the growing demand for sustainable travel experiences and is well-positioned to attract visitors seeking an authentic and eco-friendly adventure." The ECO Destination Certification supports nature-based tourism destinations to improve their holistic sustainability planning and development against the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, socio-economic, cultural and sustainable management, as well as encourage local business engagement in ecotourism and sustainability. 11 Bellingen Shire tourism businesses are currently undergoing the pre-certification benchmarking program Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard to measure and improve their current sustainability practices. Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan is attending the official launch event in the Bellingen region today to present the Shire’s Certification certificate and offer her congratulations. The ECO Destination Certification was developed by Ecotourism Australia using the international Green Destinations standard, which is recognised by the Global Sustainable Tourism Council. 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. Discover Australia’s latest ECO Destination, Bellingen Shire: https://greentravelguide.org/destination/bellingen-shire ENDS Media Contact: Ecotourism Australia: Georgie Snare, Communications and Events Officer, (e): georgie@ecotourism.org.au (ph): 07 3256 6777 Bellingen Shire Council: Gemma Steller, Communications & Engagement Lead, (e): gsteller@bellingen.nsw.gov.au (ph): 6655 7300
Compass Hut
Tiny Home Accommodation Iutruwita / Forthside, TAS Completed the Strive 4 Sustainability ScorecardNestled into the land of an organic family farm in the Northwest region of Tasmania is the 100% off-grid, boutique Tiny House accommodation, Compass Hut. In early 2019 Compass Hut was co-founded by the two sisters Kylie and Tamika Bell and is just a 10-minute drive inland from Devonport. The three tiny houses possess stunning architectural exteriors and beautiful interior design as well as furniture and artwork created by the sisters. Guests are invited to switch off and disconnect while immersing themselves in the scenery and reconnecting with each other. Guests are welcome to pick the edibles in the tiny house gardens and explore the bushland and local natural wonders during their stay. Aiming to develop their eco and sustainable tourism practices further, the business decided to take part in Ecotourism Australia's Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. “We have been keen to achieve ECO Certification through Ecotourism Australia for a while, and when we saw the opportunity to undergo the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard as a first step and pathway to full certification for Compass Hut, we signed up!”, said co-owner Kylie. A delicious wine and cheese platter awaits you with rolling green pastures in the backgroundKylie said their guests are often sustainability minded and so they wanted to build their participation in this space to better align with their visitors and current industry trends. “Undergoing the program has strengthened our knowledge of sustainability, and helped provide future ideas that we could implement at Compass Hut as well," explained Kylie. She described the program as well-structured and easy to work through, creating a strong base to build on once they engage in full ECO Certification. “Following the opportunity to undergo carbon accounting and work with ERC Australia recently, we were able to build upon our sustainability goals through the Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard program.” Compass Hut have a section of their webpage dedicated to their sustainability accomplishments, including their off-grid systems, involvement with community-based organisations and now their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. Overall, it is clearly communicated that sustainability is a core value of their business. Being able to share and celebrate their eco achievements, projects, and initiatives with their community and guests is very important to them. They are already doing so through their different communication channels, including a recently born newsletter for past and future guests to follow along their sustainability journey. In the future, there are plans to increase their in-house communication with guests, including the accomplishment of their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard. Kylie shared the business are now setting their sights on ECO Certification as the next step on their businesses’ journey! Click here to learn more about Compass Hut’s sustainable efforts, and book your stay: www.compasshut.com.au Compass Hut completed their Strive 4 Sustainability Scorecard on 2 February 2024 and is a snapshot of their current sustainability practices. The scorecard is not a certification and is valid for 12 months upon completion.Start your sustainability journey.POWERED BYFOUNDING PARTNER
Christmas Island Tourism Association
Established in 1996, Christmas Island Tourism Association (CITA) based at the Visitor Information Centre, serves as the island's tourism hub, providing essential information and products for visitors.
11 Certified Operators Victorious at Qantas Australian Tourism Awards
The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards has recognised 11 Ecotourism Australia Certified operators across five states with 13 awards for their commitment to tourism excellence in 2023. Of the 28 Certified finalists at the national awards, four won gold, eight were awarded silver and one claimed bronze across 10 categories, such as Ecotourism, Major Tour and Transport Operators and Hosted Accommodation. If certified operators were a state, they would have come runners-up for the highest number of winners behind only Queensland with 14 awards. Ocean Rafting Image: Ocean Rafting's Nathan Fleming, Jan Claxton and Peter Claxton with their gold award. Advanced Ecotourism Certified Fun Over 50 Holidays in Queensland took out gold in the prestigious Ecotourism category, followed by Sydney by Kayak achieving silver. For the first time, Sustainable Tourism Certified operators were recognised at the national awards with Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience awarded silver in the Tourist Attractions category. “We are proud to see 11 Certified operators achieve the top accolade in the Australian tourism industry,” said Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan. “Our Certified operators continue to deliver the highest-quality experiences while leading the nation in best practice sustainable tourism. As their state’s and now Australia’s leading businesses of 2023, we look forward to watching their impact grow and inspire greater tourism sustainability. “Congratulations to all Ecotourism Australia certified operators that were nominated and to those that placed on Friday night’s tourism awards.” Winners are below: Gold Fun Over 50 Holidays – Ecotourism Pennicott Wilderness Journeys - Major Tour and Transport Operators Ocean Rafting - Adventure Tourism BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort - Caravan & Holiday Parks Silver Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary - Major Tourist Attractions Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience - Tourist Attractions Sydney by Kayak – Ecotourism Fun Over 50 Holidays – Cultural Tourism Ocean Rafting - Major Tour and Transport Operators Bendleby Ranges - Adventure Tourism Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat - Hosted Accommodation Tree Chalets – Self-contained Accommodation Bronze Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach – 3-3.5 Star Accommodation
Certified Operators Head to Qantas Australian Tourism Awards
28 Ecotourism Australia Certified operators are set to shine at the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards tonight at the gala award ceremony in Darwin. 26 ECO Certified and 2 Sustainable Tourism Certified businesses are finalists for 31 awards across 16 diverse categories including Major Tourist Attractions, Ecotourism, Major Tour and Transport Operators and Adventure Tourism. Notably, Ocean Rafting, Fun Over 50 Holidays and Big 4 Adventure Whitsundays Resort are finalists across multiple award categories. Each finalist has won gold in their respective state tourism awards late last year and are now striving to take out the top acclamation in the country. Ecotourism Australia CEO, Ms Elissa Keenan, stated, “Tourism businesses certified at world’s best practice sustainability standards continue to demonstrate they are among the highest-quality experiences in Australia and it is commendable to see them recognised at the national level. “Significantly, 2023 is the first time Sustainable Tourism Certified businesses are recognised at the national level since the launch of the program in 2022 enabling operators that meet global sustainability standards to excel in new categories such as business events. “We congratulate each nominated business on their finalist achievement and wish our certified operators the best of luck for the night.” Finalists are below: 1. Major Tourist Attractions Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary QLD Monarto Safari Park SA 2. Tourist Attractions Bundaberg Rum Distillery Visitor Experience QLD Willie Creek Pearl Farm WA 5. Ecotourism Sydney by Kayak NSW Trek Larapinta NT Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures QLD The Big Duck Boat Tours SA Tasmanian Walking Company TAS Parks Victoria – Grampians Peaks Trail VIC Live Ningaloo WA 6. Cultural Tourism Fun Over 50 Holidays – Immersive Tours and Adventures QLD 7. Aboriginal & Torres Strait Island Tourism Experience Giingan Gumbaynggirr Cultural Experience NSW Wintjiri Wiru NT 10. Business Event Venues Sofitel Brisbane Central QLD 11. Major Tour & Transport Operators Moonshadow-TQC Cruises NSW AAT Kings NT Ocean Rafting QLD Pennicott Wilderness Journeys TAS 12. Tour & Transport Operators Vision Walks – Eco Tours NSW 13. Adventure Tourism World Expeditions | Australian Walking Holidays NT Ocean Rafting QLD Bendleby Ranges SA 15. Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services Nitmiluk Tours and Cicada Lodge NT Sea World Cruises QLD 17. Caravan & Holiday Parks BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort QLD 18. Hosted Accommodation Narrows Escape Rainforest Retreat QLD 19. Unique Accommodation Diamond Waters Treehouse Retreat NSW 20. Self Contained Accommodation Tree Chalets WA 21. 3-3.5 Star Accommodation Magnums Accommodation Airlie Beach QLD 26. Excellence in Accessible Tourism BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort QLD