Tourism industry shines at 2026 Tasmanian Tourism Awards

The strength and diversity of Tasmania’s tourism industry has been celebrated at the 2026 Tasmanian Tourism Awards in Hobart last night.

Attended by nearly 450 tourism operators and supporters, the awards recognised more than 90 finalists across 34 categories, with 25 gold medallists now progressing to the Australian Tourism Awards in Geelong in 2027.

Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Roger Jaensch, congratulated all finalists and winners, saying the awards demonstrated the hard work, innovation and dedication of operators, businesses and people across Tasmania’s tourism industry.

“Tasmania has some of the best tourism experiences in the country, and these awards are a fantastic opportunity to recognise the businesses and people who make our visitor economy so special,” Minister Jaensch said.

“Congratulations to all our finalists and winners, particularly the 14 first-time category winners recognised this year.

“It is exciting to see new businesses and experiences joining some of our most established and iconic operators in being recognised for their excellence.

“From our world-class food and wine experiences, to our incredible natural attractions, accommodation, tours and events, these awards showcase the very best of what Tasmania has to offer.

“Our tourism industry continues to invest, innovate and create new experiences for visitors, supporting jobs and opportunities in communities right across the State.

“Through our 2030 Strong Plan for Tasmania’s Future, our Government is backing our tourism industry to drive visitation and help keep our economy strong.”

The 2026 awards also recognised four businesses inducted into the Hall of Fame after winning their respective categories for three consecutive years.

Julia and Giles Fisher were named the 2026 Tasmanian Tourism Champions, recognising more than two decades of outstanding leadership and contribution to the industry.

Sebastian Mundy received the 2026 Tourism Minister’s Young Achiever Award for his exceptional contribution to regional tourism and leadership at just 20 years of age.

Blue Tree Gallery received the Chair of Judges’ Award for Positive Impact Tourism, recognising its commitment to mental health, wellbeing and strengthening communities through tourism.

Tasmanian gold medallists are:

• Julia and Giles Fisher (Tasmanian Tourism Champion)
• Sebastian Mundy (Tourism Minister’s Young Achiever Award)
• Blue Tree Gallery (Chair of Judges’ Award for Positive Impact Tourism)
• Bond Store (Gustav Weindorfer Award for New Tourism Business)
• The Cove Tasmania (New Tourism Product)
• Gorge Scenic Chairlift (Major Tourist Attractions)
• Woolmers Estate (Tourist Attractions)
• Tasmania’s Taste of Summer (Major Festivals and Events)
• Party In The Paddock (Festivals and Events)
• Tarkine Trails by Trek Tours Australia (Sustainable Tourism Experiences)
• Swan River Sanctuary (Sustainable Tourism Accommodation)
• West Coast Wilderness Railway (Cultural Tourism)
• Blue Tree Gallery (Tourism Retail, Hire and Services)
• Smithton Visitor Information Centre (Visitor Information Services)
• Devonport Convention Centre at the paranaple (Business Event Venues)
• Pennicott Wilderness Journeys (Major Tour and Transport Operators)
• eGuide (Tour and Transport Operators)
• Tasmanian Mountain Bike Adventures (Adventure Tourism)
• Launceston Airport (Tourism Marketing and Campaigns)
• Mures Tasmania (Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services)
• House of Arras Cellar Door (Tourism Wineries)
• Killara Distillery (Tourism Distilleries and Breweries)
• BIG4 Launceston Holiday Park (Caravan and Holiday Parks)
• Rathmore (Hosted Accommodation)
• Eagle’s Nest Retreat (Unique Accommodation)
• Red Rock Hut, King Island (Self Contained Accommodation)
• Freycinet Resort (3–3.5 Star Accommodation)
• Peppers Silo Hotel (4–4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation)
• The Tasman, A Luxury Collection Hotel, Hobart (5 Star Luxury Accommodation)
• Tasman Sea Salt (Excellence in Food Tourism)
• The Cove Tasmania (Excellence in Accessible Tourism)
• West Tamar Council (Local Government Award for Excellence in Tourism)
• Australian Wooden Boat Festival (People’s Choice Award – 500 or fewer reviews)
• Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens (People’s Choice Award – more than 500 reviews)