07 November 2011

The South Australian Tourism Awards form part of the Australian Tourism Awards, which aims to recognise and promote excellence in tourism. This year, five Advantage SA members were recognised for their excellence in the tourism industry: Adelaide Casino, Hilton Adelaide, Adelaide Convention Bureau, Flinders University and The Sebel Playford.

“The awards showcase outstanding tourism events, operators and services in South Australia,” says Tourism Minister Gail Gago.

South Australian Tourism Industry Council Chief Executive Ward Tilbrook says regional entries accounted for almost 65% of winners from across the state.

Ron Kandelaars was honoured for his involvement in tourism, receiving the award for an Outstanding Contribution by an Individual for Channel 9’s Postcards program.

The SA Tourism Awards reward innovation and foster better business practices by setting benchmarks for all tourism operators to aspire to.

Five of South Australia’s tourism experiences have been inducted into the State’s Hall of Fame at the 2011 South Australian Tourism Awards after winning their category for the third year in a row.

- Santos Tour Down Under – best Major Festivals & Events
- Getaways Reservation Service – best Specialised Tourism Services
- Yorke Peninsula Visitor Information Centre – best Visitor Information & Services
- Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage – best Hosted Accommodation
- The Sebel Playford Adelaide – best Luxury Accommodation

The awards are judged in accordance with a strict set of rules and criteria, and winners will represent the State at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in March 2012, to be held in Cairns. 

Click here to view all winners.