Whitsundays Operators Recognised as Finalists

Whitsundays Operators Recognised as Finalists in 2026 Australian Tourism Awards

MEDIA RELEASE - 04 MARCH 2026

Tourism Whitsundays is proud to announce the region’s outstanding operators as finalists in the 2026 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, ahead of the awards ceremony this Friday 6^th March at Fremantle Prison, Perth. The awards celebrate excellence, innovation and leadership across Australia’s tourism industry.

This year, the awards feature 26 categories, ranging from Major Tourist Attractions, Festivals & Events, Ecotourism, Cultural Tourism to Accommodation and Food Tourism, with a total of 179 finalists nationally.

This year, Tourism Whitsundays proudly celebrates four local finalists across multiple categories:

• Self-Contained Accommodation: Pinnacles, Airlie Beach
• Tour & Transport Operators: Iconic Whitsunday Adventures
• Tourism Retail, Hire & Services: Shute Harbour Marine Terminal
• Unique Accommodation: Whitsunday Escape

“These finalists demonstrate the quality, creativity and dedication that make the Whitsundays a world-class tourism destination,” said Tim Booth, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism Whitsundays. “Their achievements highlight the diversity and innovation in our region and set a high benchmark for the industry nationally.”

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards recognise operators who deliver unforgettable visitor experiences, drive innovation and contribute to the growth and sustainability of their destinations. The Whitsundays’ representation across four categories underscores the region’s strength as a leading tourism destination.

“The commitment of these businesses to creating memorable and unique experiences is what makes The Whitsundays so special for visitors from across Australia and the world,” Mr Booth added.

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About Tourism Whitsundays: Tourism Whitsundays (TW) is the organisation responsible for destination marketing and visitor attraction for the Whitsunday region. It is the lead agency recognised by Tourism and Events Queensland and the Whitsunday Regional Council to lead the promotion of the region as a tourism destination. Tourism Whitsundays markets all aspects of the region including the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsunday Islands and Coast, accommodation, boating and sailing, fishing, touring, recreational activities, adventure, dining, shopping, weddings and honeymoons, conferencing and business events.