Luxury eco resort wins top tourism award

• Eco Beach Broome wins at Perth Airport Western Australian Tourism Awards
• Rottnest Island and Margaret River's Jewel Cave among other winners
• Organised by Tourism Council WA and sponsored by Perth Airport

Eco Beach Broome, one of Western Australia's most extraordinary holiday destinations, took out top honours at tonight's prestigious Perth Airport Western Australian Tourism Awards.

Tourism Minister Kim Hames congratulated Eco Beach Broome, winner of the coveted Sir David Brand Award for Tourism, along with other award-winning tourism operators and individuals honoured.

Dr Hames said as well as being the overall gold medallist, the Kimberley's Eco Beach won gold in the Ecotourism and Unique Accommodation categories and the Qantas Award for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism.

"Each one of tonight's medallists makes a significant contribution to this State's tourism industry and these awards acknowledge their passion and professionalism, and celebrate our rich diversity of attractions," he said.

"Tourism in WA generates more than 73,000 jobs and in the past year, the State attracted six million visitors.  We encouraged West Australians to make 12 million trips within WA, contributing almost $6billion to our local economy.

"The local tourism industry should be commended for this considerable contribution."

Thirty-one gold medallists and award winners were announced at the gala ceremony, with those from 26 key categories going on to represent the State at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in Cairns on March 2, 2012.

Hall of Fame inductees - businesses that have won a gold medal in the same category for three consecutive years - were Cape Howe Cottages, Kimberley Wild Expeditions, Sandalford Wines and the Argyle Diamonds Ord Valley Muster.

Rottnest Island took out the Major Tourist Attractions category, while Margaret River's Jewel Cave was named winner of the Tourist Attractions category. The Lobster Shack in Cervantes was the gold medallist in the New Tourism Development category.

      Fact File

• The awards were introduced in 1972 and honour WA's first tourism minister, and former premier, Sir David Brand
• Awards recognise tourism business excellence in product and service delivery
• For a full list of winners, visit http://www.tourismcouncilwa.com.au

Minister's office - 9222 8788