The Minister for Hospitality, Scott Bacon, has congratulated the Tasmanian finalists and winners in the 2012 Australian Hospitality Awards, presented in Hobart this evening.

Mr Bacon said the four Tasmanian Award winners this year were:

• The Museum of Old and New Art (Best Tourism Initiative);
• Saffire (Best Resort-Style Accommodation);
• Glen Astell, Cradle Mountain Chateau (Employee Excellence in Service); and
• Ethos Eat Drink (Best Stand-Alone Restaurant).

"With Tasmania hosting this year's awards, it's been great to see such a strong field of local businesses either as finalists or award-winners," he said.

"This further reinforces our reputation as home to some truly world-class tourism and hospitality experiences."

Mr Bacon said the Tasmanian Government continued to be a strong supporter of the state's hospitality industry.

"We are continuing to work with the Tasmanian Hospitality Association to promote our hospitality industry, and its importance to both our lifestyle and the broader Tasmanian economy," he said.

"Through the recently-released Hospitality Industry Strategic Plan, we are also working collaboratively with the sector to help it thrive into the future."