The Canberra Region Tourism Awards for 2021 has been launched yesterday by Chief Minister, Andrew Barr. To quote Andrew Barr, “That we are able to do this is a sign of … the adaptation and the innovation of Canberra’s tourism sector rebounding off what’s been probably the most disruptive event in living memory for tourism locally, nationally and internationally.”

The ACT Government explains the Tourism Awards as one of the most impressive events on the Canberra region tourism calendar. It is managed by the National Capital Attractions Association, and sponsored by VisitCanberra. The event showcases the best of the tourism operators of the region and promotes, gives confidence and rewards tourism excellence. The 25 categories comprise attractions, events, tour and transport, accommodation, restaurants, culture, and marketing.

The categories and criteria for 2021 have been altered to earmark previous challenges, said Dr Naomi Dale, CEO of the Canberra Region Tourism Industry Council.

Last year, the award show was not organized; the qualifying period now incorporates the past two years from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2021. In this award show, five categories have been renamed. Now, online reviews and consumer ratings will contribute to the final score. And a new Judges Choice Award will recognize a finalist who has demonstrated great resilience.

“We’re so proud of the effort and innovation from our tourism industry operators,” Dr Dale said. “They are staying informed, meeting customer needs, and running business as usual as best they can. We encourage all tourism businesses to consider entering the awards this year as an opportunity to celebrate your own resilience, success and stories.”

Russell Jackson, business manager of the National Zoo and Aquarium, has heartened up businesses to enter.

Once he was doubtful of the scheme, but entering it several times had convinced him that it was “a fantastic opportunity to stop, take stock, and develop new product, and welcome people into Canberra who may not have thought of coming to Canberra previously”.