New South Wales (NSW) has cemented its place as a tourism powerhouse, taking home a stellar array of accolades at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards. Celebrating 40 years of recognising the nation’s best in travel and hospitality, this year’s awards were a triumph for NSW, especially for the state’s vibrant regional tourism operators, who continue to put world-class experiences on the map. From breathtaking coastal retreats to immersive cultural attractions, NSW proved once again why it’s a must-visit destination for travellers near and far.
Regional NSW Shines on the National Stage
Many of this year’s winners and finalists hail from regional NSW, reinforcing the state’s growing reputation as a premier destination beyond Sydney. From the lush hinterlands of the Northern Rivers to the rolling vineyards of Mudgee and the pristine beaches of Lord Howe Island, regional tourism operators have been recognised for their outstanding contributions.
Notable winners from regional NSW include:
- Sierra Escape (Mudgee) – Gold, Unique Accommodation
Luxury glamping set among Mudgee’s picturesque landscapes. - Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Silver, Tourist Attractions
A scenic, eco-friendly trail drawing visitors to the Northern Rivers. - Balloon Aloft Australia – Gold, Adventure Tourism & Excellence in Accessible Tourism
Offering breathtaking hot air ballooning experiences across regional NSW. - Port Macquarie Museum – Bronze, Cultural Tourism
Showcasing the rich history and heritage of the Mid North Coast. - Love Lord Howe – Silver, Excellence in Food Tourism
Celebrating the island’s fresh produce and sustainable dining. - Potager (Carool) – Bronze, Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services
A farm-to-table restaurant offering a taste of the Tweed hinterland.
The success of these businesses highlights the economic and social impact of tourism in regional NSW, supporting local jobs and communities while attracting visitors to explore beyond the city.
Ministerial Commendation
NSW Minister for Jobs and Tourism, Steve Kamper, praised the state’s tourism industry: “I want to congratulate all the NSW winners and nominees at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards who are helping make NSW the destination of choice for travellers. Thanks to their hard work and innovation, more people from all over the country and all over the world are visiting NSW to enjoy exceptional natural and cultural experiences.”
With increasing investment in regional tourism infrastructure, including projects such as the Special Activation Precincts and improved transport connectivity, NSW is well-positioned to continue leading the way in sustainable, experience-driven travel.
The success of this year’s regional winners is a testament to the diversity and quality of tourism experiences available across NSW—proving that you don’t have to go far to find world-class destinations.
Full List of NSW Winners & Finalists at the 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards
Gold Winners
- Balloon Aloft Australia – Adventure Tourism
- Balloon Aloft Australia – Excellence in Accessible Tourism
- The Tweed Tourism Company – Tourism Marketing & Campaigns
- Sierra Escape (Mudgee) – Unique Accommodation
Silver Winners
- Northern Rivers Rail Trail – Tourist Attractions
- Mt Hay Retreat (Berry) – 5 Star Luxury Accommodation
- Love Lord Howe – Excellence in Food Tourism
Bronze Winners
- Port Macquarie Museum – Cultural Tourism
- Potager (Carool) – Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services
NSW Finalists
- Symbio Wildlife Park – Major Tourist Attractions
- Byron Bay Bluesfest – Major Festivals & Events
- Splendour in the Grass – Major Festivals & Events
- Cupitt’s Estate – Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries
- Taronga Western Plains Zoo – Major Tourist Attractions
- Barranca Kangaroo Valley – Self-Contained Accommodation
- The Beach House at Merewether – Self-Contained Accommodation
- The Woods Farm – Unique Accommodation
- The Hills Lodge Grand Mercure – 4-4.5 Star Accommodation
- The Langham, Sydney – 5 Star Accommodation
- The Cove Jervis Bay – 4-4.5 Star Accommodation
- Byron Bay Holiday Park – Caravan & Holiday Parks
- The Lodge Jamberoo – New Tourism Business
This impressive showing highlights the strength and diversity of NSW’s tourism industry, with regional operators playing a key role in delivering world-class experiences to visitors from across Australia and beyond.
