Phillip Island Nature Parks takes out silver in top Victorian Tourism Award
Phillip Island Nature Parks has taken out silver in the coveted Victorian Tourism Awards, highlighting its exceptional ability to combine eco-tourism with successful conservation.
Nature Parks was named runner up in the Major Tourist Attraction category at the prestigious Victorian Tourism Awards Gala Ceremony at Palladium at Crown last night.
The awards, organised by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, recognise tourism excellence and outstanding innovation within the sector.
Phillip Island Nature Parks Chief Executive Officer Catherine Basterfield said Nature Parks’ staff and volunteers had worked hard to rebuild visitation in the last two years, and this award was due recognition of their dedicated efforts.
“This award is validation of the incredible experiences Phillip Island Nature Parks work hard to deliver, and it showcases that our staff, volunteers and visitors really are the cornerstone of our success,” Ms Basterfield said.
“This commitment has been particularly evident in the support we received in the wake of the pandemic. The way our domestic visitors from all across Australia supported us paved the way for positive visitation trends for our international visitors and group bookings, ultimately returning us to a strong, pre-pandemic position very quickly.
“Through a carefully curated visitor experience, Nature Parks offers a story of hope for our planet and a place where tourism and conservation have worked in synergy to celebrate and safeguard Australia's precious biodiversity.
“I am so proud to work with a team that is committed to showcasing the unique wonders of Phillip Island while managing environmental and wildlife conservation.”
Phillip Island Nature Parks offers a diverse array of experiences, including the long-loved Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Reserve, Churchill Island and the Antarctic Journey exhibit at the Nobbies Centre.
It is the only commercial venue in Australia where visitors can see Little Penguins in their natural environment and is the country’s first sensory-certified tourism attraction.
In the past year, Nature Parks has proven its ability to deliver new innovations with the first hatchlings of bush stone-curlews at the Koala Conservation Reserve, a new yarning circle learning space and enhanced hospitality options across its attractions, showcasing local food and businesses.
Ms Basterfield congratulated all the winners of the 2023 Victorian Tourism Awards, including Zoos Victoria, who took home the gold medal for the Major Tourist Attraction Award.