South Australia has celebrated success on the national stage, with one of the state’s most distinctive tourism experiences taking home top honours at the 2025 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
Held at the historic Fremantle Prison in Western Australia, the annual awards recognised the country’s best tourism businesses across 26 categories. More than 170 finalists competed for national recognition at the gala event, which drew more than 800 industry representatives from around Australia.
The Big Duck Boat Tours from South Australia claimed Gold in the Ecotourism category, operating from Victor Harbor and Wirrina Cove, conducting ocean based advanced eco tours.
Spirit of the Coorong won Gold in Tour & Transport Operators category, operating cruises from Goolwa into the Coorong National park.
Woodhouse Adventure Park also struck gold, winning the Unique Accommodation category, while also securing Silver for Adventure Tourism.
The awards celebrate excellence and innovation across the visitor economy. According to Australian Tourism Industry Council CEO Erin McLeod, the event highlights the businesses and people shaping Australia’s tourism reputation globally.
“These awards are our nation’s celebration of the businesses and people who exemplify the highest standard of quality in Australian tourism,” she said.
“This year’s winners and medallists showcase the extraordinary landscapes, rich culture, vibrant regions and genuine hospitality that define the Australian experience.”
Several other standout winners were recognised on the night. Katherine Outback Experience in the Northern Territory and The Dragonfly Inn in Tasmania were inducted into the Hall of Fame after winning Gold in their categories for three consecutive years.
In the events category, Canberra’s Floriade took home Gold for Major Festivals and Events, while Victoria’s Go Adventure Nagambie was recognised for Adventure Tourism. Western Australia’s Gourmet Camp Oven Experience secured Gold in Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services.
Federal Tourism Minister Don Farrell congratulated the winners and nominees, highlighting the importance of tourism operators across the country.
“My heartfelt congratulations to every winner and nominee,” he said. “Across Australia from vibrant cities to our most remote communities, talented and dedicated tourism businesses are creating unforgettable experiences for visitors from both home and abroad.”
Long-time sponsor Qantas also praised the industry’s efforts to showcase Australia’s destinations.
The national carrier’s Domestic CEO Markus Svensson said tourism operators across the country continue to play a key role in promoting Australia’s regions.
“From our major cities to our spectacular regions, Australia’s tourism operators do a remarkable job showcasing everything that makes this country special,” he said.
The Qantas Australian Tourism Awards remain one of the industry’s most prestigious accolades, recognising the businesses shaping Australia’s visitor experience and strengthening the country’s reputation as a global travel destination.
SA Award Winners
Gold
- Spirit of the Coorong — Tour & Transport Operators
- The Big Duck Boat Tours — Ecotourism
- Woodhouse Adventure Park — Unique Accommodation
Silver
- Adelaide Fringe — Excellence in Accessible Tourism
- Adelaide Fringe — Major Festivals & Events
- Monarto Safari Resort — New Tourism Business
- Old Coach Road Estate — Self-Contained Accommodation
- Woodhouse Adventure Park — Adventure Tourism
Bronze
- Monkey Nut Cafe — Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services
- Seppeltsfield Barossa — Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries
- Streaky Sounds Music Festival 2025 — Festivals & Events
For more info and a full list of winners, click here.
