Mackay Isaac Region Celebrates Strong Presence at Queensland Tourism Awards

The Mackay Isaac region proudly marked its strongest-ever presence at the Queensland Tourism Awards in Brisbane on Friday night, with nine outstanding local operators, events, and businesses stepping forward to showcase the best of the region’s tourism on the state’s biggest stage.

The Queensland Tourism Awards are the pinnacle of excellence in our state’s tourism industry, celebrating outstanding accomplishments and honouring the finest individuals, businesses, and events across Queensland.

With submissions from Oh Deere Farm Stay, Wombat Festival, St Lawrence Wetlands Weekend, Bush Heli-Services, Quest Mackay on Gordon, Nautical By Nature Mackay, Rydges Mackay Suites and Off Camber Mountain Biking, the night was set to be a celebration like no other.

Mackay Isaac Tourism CEO Jeff Stewart-Harris said the region’s showing at the awards was a proud moment.

"Submitting to the Queensland Tourism Awards is no small feat—it requires time, reflection, and a deep commitment to excellence”, Mr Stewart-Harris said.

“To see nine operators from our region step up this year is a testament to the passion and pride that drives tourism in Mackay Isaac.

"This year’s record number of submissions from the region shows that our tourism operators are not only delivering incredible visitor experiences, they’re also ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in Queensland.

“It’s inspiring to see such strong regional representation, and we look forward to continuing to support and celebrate our operators as they grow and thrive into the future”.

Award Placements:

• Nautical By Nature Mackay – SILVER in New Tourism Business
• Quest Mackay On Gordon – SILVER in 4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation
• Bush Heli-Services (Queensland Helicopters) – BROZE Tour and Transport Operators
  Sitting in the audience eagerly awaiting the results was new operator Nautical By Nature Mackay.

Owner/Operator and Director Louise Plahn said that as a brand-new operator, they were only eligible for the New Tourism Business category at the state level this year.

“It’s an incredible honour to be recognised among such outstanding operators from across Queensland,” Mrs Plahn said.

“We’re so proud to be part of a community of incredible and passionate operators putting Mackay Isaac firmly on Queensland’s tourism map.

“Friday night’s result is a win not just for us, but for the region we’re so proud to call home”.

Celebrating from Mackay, General Manager of Quest Mackay On Gordon, Ibby Saad said their award in the 4 – 4.5 Star Accommodation category is a wonderful acknowledgment of our team’s commitment to excellence in tourism.

“We’re proud to contribute to the growing success of the Mackay Isaac region,” Mr. Saad said.

“It’s inspiring to see our local industry thrive on such a prestigious stage.”

Owner of Bush Heli-Services and Queensland Helicopters, Mardi Bush said their Bronze award in the Tour and Transport category was a complete shock.

“This award not only recognises the dedicated team at Queensland Helicopters/Bush Heli-Services who consistently bring our vision to life, but also highlights the strength of our region,” Mrs Bush said.

“Though modest in scale, we offer exceptional experiences for travellers and those seeking a truly memorable holiday”.

Mackay Isaac Tourism extends its heartfelt congratulations to all entrants. Their passion, innovation, and commitment continue to elevate the region’s tourism offerings and inspire future growth.

As the region celebrates this milestone, it looks forward to building on the momentum and showcasing even more of what makes Mackay Isaac unforgettable.

[ENDS]