Tourism professionals from the around NSW gathered at The Sydney Convention and Exhibition Centre, Darling Harbour for the prestigious 2009 NSW Tourism Awards for Excellence in Tourism last night. The awards ceremony and gala dinner celebrated the industry’s leading contributors and recognised the high standards of the NSW tourism industry.

The NSW Tourism Awards recognise and celebrate the diverse range of tourism product throughout NSW and the outstanding individuals who promote and support the industry. The NSW Tourism Awards celebrate and acknowledge tourism businesses that have demonstrated outstanding achievement and success throughout the year.

Winners were announced in 33 categories with the Hunter taking home 12 awards. These outstanding results reflect the regions strong draw as a tourism destination and the professionalism and world-class nature of the Hunter’s tourism products and services.

The Hunter received four Gold, one Silver and seven Bronze awards over 10 different categories.

Newcastle Airport took out the award for ‘Specialised Tourism Services’, a clear indication of the outstanding service they provide and the value of the airport to both the Hunter and the State.

Surprise winner The Vintry Country House and Vineyard won the award for ‘Deluxe Accommodation’ an award historically won by larger hotels in the State. The Vintry owner Greg Mincher was commended for his high quality yet small business contribution to the category.

The ‘Major Tour and Transport Operators’ award was taken out by Moonshadow Cruises for the second consecutive year who continue to offer tourists a range of harbor related activities in the Newcastle and Port Stephens areas.

Crowne Plaza Newcastle has continued their exceptional service and ability to be the most prominent ‘Meetings & Business Tourism’ operator in the Hunter Region by winning an award in this category for the second year running. Crowne Plaza Newcastle has also won in this category at the Hunter Awards for the past 4 years. They were also awarded a bronze award for ‘Deluxe Accommodation’.

Newcastle Airport, Moonshadow Cruises & Crowne Plaza Newcastle have developed since their Silver awards in 2008 to receive the Gold awards for their categories in 2009.

All of the Gold award winners now go onto become finalists in the Australian Tourism Awards to be held in Hobart on 26th February 2010.

Hunter Regional Tourism Organisation CEO, Sheridan Ferrier, said "It's fantastic to see Hunter Tourism Operators being rewarded and I'm particularly pleased for the individuals behind the businesses who work so hard to make it all happen. It was especially good to see some new winners this year, as this demonstrates growth in the tourism industry,” she said.

The awards ceremony sent an unambiguous message, showcasing the regions dedicated tourism professionals and highlighting the Hunter as an exceptional travel destination.