Queensland’s leading tourism destinations and top tour guide have been recognised at the Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s (QTIC) Top Tourism Town and Top Tour Guide Awards.
Held last night, the awards celebrated the communities and individuals helping drive Queensland’s visitor economy.
Taking out the accolades were Airlie Beach, awarded Top Small Tourism Town for the fifth consecutive year, and Toogoolawah, which claimed the title of Top Tiny Tourism Town. Stanthorpe was announced as Queensland’s Top Tourism Town.
Jeb Connelly of Gems Tag A Long Tours in Outback Queensland was awarded the prestigious title of Top Tour Guide.
A proud Pitta Pitta man from the Sapphire Gemfields, Connelly has built a reputation for delivering authentic and deeply personal visitor experiences that combine Indigenous cultural knowledge, Outback storytelling and hands-on fossicking adventures. His ability to connect visitors with Country, culture and community in a genuine and memorable way set him apart as this year’s winner.
QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler said the winners represent the diversity, passion and professionalism that make Queensland one of Australia’s leading tourism destinations.
“These awards celebrate the communities and individuals who go above and beyond to create memorable visitor experiences and showcase the very best of Queensland,” Wheeler said.
“Tourism is ultimately about people and place. These destinations have shown a strong commitment to welcoming visitors and delivering experiences that encourage people to stay longer, spend more and return again.
“Our Top Tour Guide winner, Jeb Connelly of Gems Tag A Long Tours, exemplifies the passion, knowledge and dedication that help bring Queensland’s destinations to life. What makes Jeb’s story particularly inspiring is that he has built a successful tourism business through lived experience, passion and a deep commitment to sharing his culture. He guides with humility, kindness and an innate ability to make every guest feel valued and included.”
Tourism Whitsundays CEO, Tim Booth said five consecutive Top Small Tourism Town wins is a remarkable achievement, and one that speaks directly to the quality of what the destination delivers.
“Year after year, Airlie Beach continues to raise the bar with operators investing in their product, businesses backing the visitor experience and a community that genuinely takes pride in welcoming people to The Whitsundays. We are proud to be taking Airlie Beach to the national stage in September.”
The winners will represent Queensland at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards later this year.
Gold winners
- Top Tourism Town: Stanthorpe
- Top Small Tourism Town: Airlie Beach – Whitsundays
- Top Tiny Tourism Town: Toogoolawah – Queensland Country
- Top Tour Guide: Jeb Connelly, Gems Tag A Long Tours – Queensland Country
Silver winners:
- Top Small Tourism Town: Port Douglas, Tropical North Queensland
- Top Tiny Tourism Town: Hughenden, Outback Queensland
- Top Tour Guide: Guy Watson, Urban Tours
Bronze winners:
- Top Small Tourism Town: Esk, Queensland Country
- Top Tiny Tourism Town: Cape Tribulation, Tropical North Queensland
- Top Tour Guide: Paul Porteous, Cairns Adventure Group
