IT was a golden night for the Hastings at the 2014 North Coast Tourism Awards on Saturday as eight of our finest tourism operators took top spot among 39 finalists.
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The event was held at Trial Bay Gaol at South West Rocks.
First winner of the night was the Glasshouse which was inducted into the North Coast Tourism Hall of Fame after having won a gold award for three consecutive years.
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council deputy mayor Adam Roberts said: "These awards are a great representation of the local region's versatile and wide-ranging group of businesses which showcase the diversity of our tourism culture".
Billabong Zoo's Mark and Danena Stone picked up a bronze in the major tourism attraction category, saying they were happy with the result.
- First time entrant Port Macquarie Beatles Festival earned gold in the festivals and events category.
Janette Hyde said it was an exciting night and it was wonderful to see so many Port Macquarie operators took the time to write submissions and be part of it.
"We thought the festival was memorable in the past two years and thought it should be recognised," Mrs Hyde said.
- Port Macquarie Historical Museum brought home the gold for heritage and cultural tourism.
Accepting the award Debbie Sommers said it was great recognition of the hard work of the volunteers and all who had preceded them over 57 years the museum has been operating.
"In the past year we developed a cultural tourism plan to ensure we are more sustainable in the future and this award makes us realise we are an important tourism asset for Port Macquarie and its community," she said.
- Another of the gold winners was Bellrowan Valley Horse Riding in the adventure tourism category.
Mark Ennor said: "It might be time consuming [to enter a submission] but it puts a telescope into your business over the past year and looking forward. After a silver last year it's great to be on the podium again".
Kathy and Peter Balodis' Corner restaurant were happy to be awarded a bronze in the tourism restaurant and catering services.
- North Coast Holiday Park Bonny Hills earned gold for tourist and caravan parks while Vacation Village took top spot for standard accommodation.
Park managers Greg and Michelle Morrissey said it was the first time they had entered a submission.
General Manager of North Coast Holiday Parks Jim Bolger said the Bonny Hills park had recently undergone a $1.7 million upgrade including the construction of a boardwalk around the escarpment of the coastline.
- The final two golds were won by Telegraph Retreat Luxury Cottages for hosted accommodation and Old Bottlebutt Burrawan State Forest for new tourism development.
Roger and Melanie Marshall of the retreat cottages said their level of service and attention to detail set them apart.
"We make sure everyone feels special," Mrs Marshall said.
It was their second win and with their 5 star rating on Trip Advisor and Wotif she said it was good affirmation of all they do.
"The customers tell us, but it's good to get industry accolades."
