Qantas Australian Tourism Awards: Celebrating Major Tourist Attractions Across Australia

Questacon

Australia’s Best Tourist Attractions Recognized at the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards have once again highlighted the diverse and exceptional tourism experiences that Australia offers. With outstanding destinations and attractions across the country, this year’s awards celebrate the best in the business, showcasing the unique cultural, natural, and scientific landmarks that make Australia a top destination for global travellers.

Gold Award: Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre (Canberra)

A shining star in the heart of Canberra, Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre has been awarded the prestigious Gold in the Major Tourist Attractions category. Known for its hands-on exhibits and interactive displays, Questacon offers visitors of all ages a chance to explore the wonders of science and technology. Whether you’re engaging with robotic technology, discovering the mysteries of space, or testing your strength with exciting physical challenges, Questacon offers a fascinating and educational experience that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Silver Award: Zoos Victoria – Melbourne Zoo (Victoria)

Melbourne Zoo

Zoos Victoria continues to be a leader in animal conservation and public education. The Silver award winner for Major Tourist Attractions, the Melbourne Zoo is home to more than 320 species of animals from around the globe. Visitors can get up close to wildlife, enjoy conservation programs, and participate in educational activities that focus on preserving endangered species. With its lush landscapes and world-class facilities, Melbourne Zoo provides a memorable experience for wildlife enthusiasts and families alike.

Bronze Award: WA Museum Boola Bardip (Western Australia)

WA Museum Boola Bardip

The Bronze award went to the WA Museum Boola Bardip, an iconic museum that showcases Western Australia’s rich cultural heritage. Located in Perth, this world-class museum offers visitors a fascinating exploration of the state’s diverse history, from Aboriginal culture to the region’s colonial past. Its state-of-the-art exhibits and immersive displays allow visitors to experience WA’s art, culture, and natural environment in a unique and engaging way. Whether you're interested in geology, indigenous culture, or modern art, WA Museum Boola Bardip has something for everyone.

Finalists: Recognizing Outstanding Tourist Attractions Across Australia

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards also recognised several other incredible attractions as finalists in this year’s Major Tourist Attractions category. These destinations continue to attract visitors from around the world, offering unique experiences that highlight Australia's natural beauty and rich cultural landscape.

GC Aqua Park (Queensland)

For those seeking adventure and water-based fun, GC Aqua Park in Queensland is a must-see. With its inflatable obstacle course set on the Gold Coast's stunning waters, this is a place for thrill-seekers and families to enjoy. The park provides a fun and active way to experience the region’s beautiful coastline.

Monarto Safari Park (South Australia)

Monarto Safari Park, the largest open-range zoo in Australia, offers visitors the chance to get up close with over 50 species of African and Australian animals. Located in South Australia, this safari park provides a unique wildlife experience, including guided tours and the opportunity to spot giraffes, lions, and rhinos in their natural habitats.

Port Arthur Historic Site (Tasmania)

Tasmania’s Port Arthur Historic Site is a treasure trove of Australian history. As a former convict settlement, the site offers a haunting yet educational journey into Australia’s past. With its beautifully preserved ruins and informative tours, Port Arthur continues to be an important cultural landmark that attracts history lovers and curious travellers from all over the world.

Symbio Wildlife Park (New South Wales)

Located in New South Wales, Symbio Wildlife Park offers a personal and intimate experience with native Australian animals. Visitors can see koalas, kangaroos, and wombats up close, and learn about wildlife conservation efforts to protect endangered species. This wildlife park provides a fantastic family day out while also contributing to environmental education and preservation.

Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park (Northern Territory)

One of Australia's most iconic destinations, Uluṟu-Kata Tjuṯa National Park is a finalist in the Major Tourist Attractions category. Known for the breathtaking sight of Uluṟu (Ayers Rock) and the unique rock formations of Kata Tjuṯa, the park is a place of cultural significance to the Anangu people. Visitors can experience the majestic beauty of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, learn about Aboriginal culture, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets and sunrises over the desert landscape.

A Bright Future for Australian Tourism

The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards showcase the vibrant diversity of attractions across the country, from cultural landmarks and wildlife experiences to awe-inspiring natural wonders. With destinations like Questacon, Zoos Victoria, and WA Museum Boola Bardip taking home top honors, it’s clear that Australian tourism continues to thrive. For those looking to explore Australia’s best, the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards provide an excellent guide to the country's leading destinations.

For more information on Australia’s top tourist attractions and to plan your next adventure, visit the official tourism websites or explore the award-winning destinations.

Contact Details: Visit Qantas Australian Tourism Awards Website for more information.

Arizona launches the AZ Parks Passport

The US state of Arizona, is best known for the Grand Canyon, the mile-deep chasm carved by the Colorado River. 

Information on this and Arizona’s 50 other parks, monuments and recreation areas is available on the new digital AZ Parks Passport from the Arizona Office of Tourism. 

The pass offers trip ideas and directions with categories including colourful canyons, dark sky wonders and lush landscapes. 

www.visitarizona.com/places/parks-monuments 

Josh Coddington at jcoddington@tourism.az.gov

New skate plaza brings fun for all ages to the foreshore

Skateboarders of all ages and abilities will soon have a new space to perfect their ollies, nollies and kick-flips as construction on a new skate plaza next to Federal Park in Glebe begins this June.

The skate plaza will have ledges, banks, kerbs, walls, rails and stairs, as well as a freestanding mini ramp that will offer skaters of all levels a chance to master their tricks and enjoy the outdoors.

The skate plaza is near the soon to be reopened archways in the light rail viaduct and the existing playground, which will be refurbished and expanded with a focus on inclusive play.

Former industrial land between Glebe and Annandale will also be transformed into new open space and parklands. Pathways for pedestrians and cyclists will pass through the restored viaduct arches, linking the new space to the Glebe foreshore.

“We’re thrilled to provide this new skate plaza as part of the expanded parklands,” Lord Mayor Clover Moore said.

“The project will create about one-and-a-half football fields’ worth of new open space on the old Crescent Lands industrial site and restore long-lost views through the heritage viaduct archways to Federal Park.

“This new green space will also link existing parklands on the foreshore to new ones along The Crescent, creating 27.5 hectares of continuous open space.”

The new open space will offer expanded picnic and barbecue facilities, large grass areas for casual recreation and junior sport, as well as outdoor exercise equipment.

The skate plaza has been designed by award-winning skate park and youth space designers Convic with JMD Design and is due to be completed in early 2020.

The City of Sydney currently has skate parks in Redfern Park, Waterloo Oval, Ward Park in Surry Hills and a mini ramp in Federal Park.