16 November 2013. The winners of the Northern Territory’s highest tourism accolades were announced tonight at a gala ceremony for the 27th Brolga Tourism Awards in Alice Springs.

Minister for Tourism Matt Conlan congratulated all the winners and said their outstanding efforts were helping return visitor numbers to the NT to growth.

“This year’s winners have all displayed exceptionally high standards and are a credit to our industry,” Mr Conlan said.

“A total 29 businesses and individuals have been awarded for their service to the tourism industry in the Northern Territory tonight.

“These people have ensured that their tourism businesses in the NT are world-class and that visitors leave the Territory with an unforgettable experience.

“I congratulate all the finalists - they are helping to rebuild this important industry in the Territory and all the award winners should be very proud of their achievements.

“This Government has made tourism an absolute priority since winning the election and our plan is to grow the visitor economy to $2.2 billion by 2020 – that will create jobs and drive the economy, but we cannot do that without the support and commitment of our industry.

“This is a night to recognise outstanding contributions and encourage and honour businesses and people who strive for excellence. I would like to pay particular mention to the three first time entrants this year who won their categories.

“I am delighted that tonight’s highest honour – the Tourism Minister’s Perpetual Trophy – has been awarded to a couple who founded Alice Springs’ first tour company almost 50 years ago.

“Pat and Norma Brennan from Tailormade are being singled out for their hard work, dedication and impeccable reputation for quality service.

“Over the years, Pat and Norma successfully developed their own distinct presence in the marketplace, offering day touring, private charters, and the highly acclaimed Original Outback Bush BBQ – an authentic experience in a spectacular venue that provides a rare insight into the early Aboriginal way of life and the pioneering cattle industry.

“The Brennans went on to sell their business to their son, Danny but they have inspired countless others while paving the way for tourism operators of the future.’

“All business category winners will be finalists in the 2013 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Sydney next February, and I wish them success.”

This year each business category winner will win a $10,000 marketing package with Tourism NT, ensuring that our tourism businesses maintain a competitive edge among their interstate rivals.

In another first, $3000 is being awarded to one new entrant to assist them in attending a trade show or sales mission with Tourism NT to enhance their business and open new markets.

At the ceremony Mr Conlan welcomed Mick Burns and Geoff Weeks to the Northern Territory Tourist Commission, and thanked outgoing commissioners Andy Bruyn and Brad Morgan for their contributions.

The MC for the event was Shane Jacobson, with Craig Willis providing the winners announcements. Entertainment was provided by Territory girl Leah Flanagan and Adam Thompson from Chocolate Starfish and band.

MasterChef runner-up Lynton Tapp presented an award and thanked the NT produce suppliers who came on board as partners of the event.  He also introduced the new Alice Springs Convention Centre chef and the new menu showcasing NT produce.

See attachment for the full list of winners of the 27th Brolga Northern Territory Tourism Awards.

WINNERS OF THE 2013 BROLGA NORTHERN TERRITORY TOURISM AWARDS
Major Tourist Attraction
Crocosaurus Cove
Tourist Attraction
Uluru Camel Tours**
Major Festivals and Events
2013 XXXXGold Alice Springs Cup Carnival
Festivals and Events
Yulara Outback Fest 2013*
Eco Tourism
Sea Darwin Eco Cruises
Heritage and Cultural Tourism
Venture North Australia**
Indigenous Tourism
Voyages Indigenous Tourism Australia
Specialised Tourism Services
DIY Tourguide Australia
Visitor Information Centre
Tourism Top End**
Business Tourism
Uluru Meeting Place
Major Tour and/or Transport Operator
AAT Kings
Tour and/or transport Operator
Uluru Camel Tours**
Adventure Tourism
Tiwi Islands Adventures*
Tourism Restaurants and Catering
Services
RT Tours Australia
Tourist and Caravan Parks
BIG4 MacDonnell Range Holiday Park**
Backpacker Accommodation
Melaleuca on Mitchell
Standard Accommodation
Ibis Styles Katherine
Deluxe Accommodation
Lasseters
Luxury Accommodation
Sails in the Desert Hotel
New Tourism Development
SKYCITY Darwin
Qantas Award for Excellence in
Sustainable Tourism
Sea Darwin Eco Cruises
First time entrants award
Pine Creek Railway Resort*
Tourism NT Business Growth Award
Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre
George Dunne Award Outstanding
Contribution by an Individual
Lisa Dawes – Ibis Styles Katherine
Outstanding Interpretive Guide
Manuel Pamkal, Top Didj, Katherine
Young Achiever
Lisa Harriman, Table Forty Three Mantra
Pandanas, Darwin
Industry Employee
Rosemary Mackrill, Mantra on the
Esplanade, Darwin
Chairman’s Choice Award
Quest Parap
Tourism Minister’s Perpetual Trophy
Pat and Norma Brennan
*First time entrant
**Category winner for second year in succession