After winning GOLD at the Queensland Tourism Awards in November, Explore Rockhampton’s destination marketing campaign ‘The Ultimate Mates Trip’ will excitedly represent the state of Queensland at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in the Northern Territory tomorrow night.
Nominated by Advance Rockhampton, Rockhampton Regional Council’s Tourism, Industry Development, Marketing and Major Events team, Explore Rockhampton’s campaign was awarded gold in the ‘Richard Power Award for Tourism Marketing and Campaigns’ category at the Queensland Tourism Awards in 2023.
A collaboration with influencers Live To Create, the ‘Ultimate Mates Trip’ campaign highlighted the best of the Beef, Barra and Burnout Capital of Australia, contributing to inspiring 580,000 people to visit the Rockhampton region in 2023.
Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said representing the state at the Australian Tourism Awards solidifies Rockhampton’s position as a beacon of excellence within the Queensland tourism arena.
“The Rockhampton Region is a great place to visit and that’s not just us saying that – that’s now being recognised nationally,” Mayor Williams said.
“The tourism and visitation industry is worth $416 million to our region and supports hundreds of local businesses and workers.
“Being recognised at this level is a testament to our local tourism operators, businesses and community members. We are incredibly proud to showcase what Rockhampton has to offer on the national stage.”
Advance Rockhampton Tourism and Events Manager Zac Garven said being named an Australian Tourism Awards finalist reaffirms our commitment to providing exceptional visitor experiences in our region.
“This recognition proves our region offers a multitude of reasons to visit – where else in Queensland can you attend nationally recognised events, stay in award-winning accommodation and explore a region brimming with unique tourism experiences like world-class mountain biking trails, trophy barramundi fishing and adventure caving,” Mr Garven said.
“Queensland’s ³Ô¹ÏÍøÕ¾ Visitor Survey showed the Rockhampton region thrived during the last financial year, with Explore Rockhampton’s destination marketing campaigns contributing to a 22% growth in visitor expenditure in the Rockhampton region.”
The Australian Tourism Awards serve as a platform to celebrate excellence, innovation, and sustainability within the tourism industry, bringing together industry leaders, stakeholders, and enthusiasts from across the country.
Finalists are chosen from each state and territory’s Gold Tourism Award winners and are then put to a panel of expert industry judges, where a winner of the nation is crowned. The awards will take place in the Northern Territory tomorrow night, Friday 15 March 2024.
