Four of Tasmania’s top hospitality venues and tourism experiences have walked away from a national awards ceremony overnight with the crown of being the best in the country.
The annual Australian Hotels Association Awards for Excellence at Adelaide Oval on Monday marked the fifth consecutive event where Tasmania claimed four outstanding awards.
Among the state’s winners were Tasmanian Wild Seafood Adventures in the Best Tourism Initiative category for their ‘deep-to-dish’ cruises that offer guests the unique experience of witnessing fresh seafood being caught and cooked right before their eyes.
The Old Woolstore also took home the Outstanding Community Service and Achievement award, a recognition they have consistently won at various levels for several years.
Tasmanian Hospitality Association Chief Executive Steve Old said there was impressive competition in the Best Restaurant – Regional category, where Tasmanian heavyweights Ogee, Bar Wa Izakaya and the French-inspired East Coast Furneaux Restaurant vied for the top spot.
Ultimately, East Coast Furneaux Restaurant secured the back-to-back title.
Cataract on Paterson, which was nominated for two awards and had staffer George Riley nominated for Hotel Industry Rising Star, earned the title of Best Marketed Hotel – General Division.
“Once again our state’s hospitality offerings and establishments have confirmed their status as among the best in the country,” Old said.
“To have three of the eight finalists in the Best Restaurant – Regional category is a true testament to the world class businesses in Tasmania and Furneaux, led superbly by Stefaan Codron, has again proved its class.”
“There are some true heavyweight venues across Australia whose reputations speak for themselves and it is great to see our businesses can stand shoulder to shoulder with them. It is the reason the state is viewed as a highly desirable destination.”
“Congratulations to the four winners, but also to all of our venues which were in the running. Being a finalist against the best of the best across Australia is a significant achievement in itself.”
Tasmanian 2023 National Winners
Best Marketed Hotel – General Division
Cataract on Paterson
Best Restaurant – Regional
Furneaux Restaurant
Outstanding Community Service & Achievement
The Old Woolstore
Best Tourism Initiative
Tasmanian Wild Seafood Adventures
