The Redlands on Moreton Bay Tourism Awards celebrates tourism industry excellence. The 2009 winners were announced at a Gala Awards evening on 16 July, with local industry awards going to 12 Redlands tourism businesses and one Hall of Fame winner.

Straddie Kingfisher Tours was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Gala Dinner and Award Presentation, held in front of 120 guests at the Palms Auditorium of the Redlands Sporting Club.

Congratulating all the award winners, Redland City Council Mayor, Melva Hobson said the innovation and quality behind the winners was an important part of the Redland tourism experience and its success.

“The many un-spoilt, distinctive and affordable opportunities available for holiday makers in the Redlands are a strong advantage in what has been a challenging tourism market this past year” the Mayor said.

“Redland City Council will continue to build on its important partnership with the industry through business development and mentoring, especially in the online environment.

“With the help of strategic planning in the coming year we hope to further strengthen the promotion of those local attractions and special values the Redlands community already cherish and are eager to share with visitors.’ Mayor Hobson said.

Brisbane Marketing congratulates members for winning the following categories:

Major Tour &/or Transport Operators (Sponsored by QTIC)
Stradbroke Ferries

Deluxe Accommodation (Sponsored by Sirromet)
Mt Cotton Guesthouse

Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Boutique Breweries (Sponsored by Redlands Sporting Club)
Sirromet Winery

Specialised Tourism Services (Sponsored by Bayside Bulletin)
Stradbroke Island Holidays

All the 2009 entrants were encouraged to build on their success and their experience of the award process by now entering the Queensland Tourism Awards.

2008 Redland on Moreton Bay Tourism Awards Winner, the Lighthouse Restaurant went on to win the Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services category at the state awards in 2008 and achieved finalist status at national level.

To view a full list of 2009 Redlands on Moreton Bay Tourism Award winners visit Redland City Council's website at www.more2redlands.com.au.