Check out eight of the 2023 National Award Winners from Western Australia, announced at the national awards on March 15, 2024.
The Qantas Australian National Tourism Awards are the most prestigious tourism awards in Australia. Finalists must first win at their respective local state and territory awards before going head-to-head with the countries best. It’s an amazing guide to some leading destinations for your next holiday. Here’s a list of eight of the 2023 National Award Winners from Western Australia, announced at the national awards on March 15, 2024.
Credit: Pearls of Australia
1: Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm
Dampier Peninsula, Kimberley
Award: Unique Accommodation
Located just north of Broome in the remote waters of the Dampier Peninsula, Cygnet Bay Pearl Farm provides a unique opportunity to explore the extraordinary indigenous pearling history through to four generations of the Brown family who have been pearling and living here since 1946.
There are a range of experiences to enjoy, from the panoramic view of Pearler’s Village to sea safari and other tours, accommodation and of course jewellery shopping. It’s also one of the few places in the world where you can purchase the renowned Indian Ocean pearls from the very waters in which they were farmed.
Credit @Origins Market Busselton on Facebook
2: Origins Market
Busselton, Margaret River Region
Award: Tourism retail, hire and services
Located in the heart of Busselton and locally known as “The food bowl of the Southwest”, Origins Market is like no other. Built in consultation with Wadandi elder Dr Wayne Webb, Origins fosters an authentic community environment that welcomes people of all backgrounds, connecting locals and visitors with the leading local makers and producers in Western Australia.
There are over 70 artisans including producers, artisanal makers, urban cellar doors, cozy homestead bars and eateries. Origins Market opens from 8.30am till 6pm on Thursday through to Sunday and until 9pm on Thursdays to Saturdays for Origins by Night. Early birds can start their day right by indulging with Dusty Buns’ freshly baked bread and an aromatic coffee from Obison Coffee Roasters available from 7am onwards.
Credit: Luxury Busselton Accommodation
3: Tree Chalets
Busselton, Margaret River Region
Award: Self-contained accommodation
For travellers who enjoy luxury, seclusion and the environment, Tree Chalets is a unique, eco-certified property with a net zero carbon rating. Tucked away from the bustling city lifestyle, only relying on the sun and rain, Tree Chalets offers a sustainable experience, where you can experience the wonders nature provides, nourishing both your soul and the environment. You also get to enjoy the stunning Rosegum trees, which have been a significant contributor to the property’s net zero rating.
Located in Busselton Shire on the edge of the stunning Margaret River Wine Region, there is plenty of nature to explore, from the renowned Cape to Cape walking trails to the forests and extraordinary coastline, not to mention more than 100 wineries, restaurants, local producers, and farm tours. Tree Chalets tends to be booked well in advance, so early bookings are advised.
Credit: Traveloka
4. Swan River Seaplanes
Awards: Tour & Transport Operators
If you have never tried it before, taking off and landing in a seaplane really is an awesome experience and by far the most fun way to get to from Perth to many of Western Australia’s most iconic destinations, including Rottnest, Margaret River, and the Swan Valley. Your plane is a Cessana 208 Caravan Amphibian, with plenty of space and seats for 12 passengers.
Up in the air, every flight you take with Swan River Seaplanes offers breathtaking aerial views, creating an unparalleled experience. Travelling solo, as a couple, or in a group, Swan River Seaplane’s exclusive and interactive itineraries open a world of options for exploring Western Australia’s spectacular regions.
Credit: Ord Valley Muster
5. Ord Valley Muster
Kununurra, East Kimberly
Awards: Festivals and Events
Held annually in May, Ord Valley Muster is one of Kimberley’s Biggest festivals. Situated on the banks of the magnificent Ord River, Kununurra (Goonoonoorrang), the Ord Valley Muster provides a cultural experience unique to Kimberley. Unfolding over 10 days in May, it encapsulates a series of events celebrating diversity, community, and the north-west’s vast, wild and untamed landscapes. Throughout the festival, you will be witnessing the transformative power of the Warringari Corrobee. One of the allurements of the festival; the Kimberley Moon Experience is a magical night encompassing a line-up of national and local musical acts, both traditional and non- traditional, stationed against the Ord River held under the starry night skies. The most divine way to enjoy the Nexus Airlines Kimberley Moon Experience is partaking in the exclusive black-tie dinner served first with pre-dinner drinks and canapes, followed by a delicious sit-down dinner under the stars.
Credit: Ngurrangga Tours
6. Ngurranga Tours
Awards: Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experiences
It is said that to learn about a different culture, one is best to learn it from the cultural group themselves. Ngurranga Tours is an Aboriginal-owned and operated tourism company delivering tours to the coastal and inland areas within the Ngarluma and Yindjibarndi traditional country. Ngurranga Tours allows you to experience the magic of the Pilbara with the guidance of a traditional owner where you will explore the magnificent landscapes, listen to traditional stories of this region, and gain a better understanding of traditional lifestyles including finding bush foods, medicines and local rock arts.
Credit: Venue Maestro
7. CORE Cider House
Merrivale Rd, Pickering Brook
Awards: Tourism Restaurants & Catering Services
For over 80 years, CORE Cider House has cultivated its orchard, providing memorable experiences for Western Australia families on this magnificent fourth-generation, 40-acre property. Nestled amidst the picturesque orchards of Pickering Brook, CORE Cider House offers a quintessential experience labelled as a perfect spot to enjoy refreshing ciders and delicious food. Meticulously grown and crafted onsite, CORE Cider House ensures the highest quality from tree to bottle.
With over 9 apple varieties, the cider ranges from fruity sparkling to traditional blends using methods such as basket pressing and barrel fermentation. You can enjoy cider tastings; Orchard tractor tours and pick-your-own fruit adventures during the harvest season.
Credit: South Pacific by Design
8. Pullman Bunker Bay Resort
Bunker Bay, Margaret River Wine Region
Awards: 5-star luxury accommodation
Situated alongside the crystal-clear waters of the stunning Bunker Bay in the Margaret River Wine Region, Pullman Bunker is a 5-star luxury resort and haven of peace and tranquility offering world-class services. Rooms range from studio to three-bedroom bungalow-style villas ideal for all kinds of getaways.
The resort goes above and beyond for those seeking leisure and recreation, providing complimentary weekly activities tailored for both adults and children, serene yoga sessions, delightful wine tastings and various arts and crafts. Local attractions include 90 superb wineries and a treasure trove of natural wonders and unique experiences, such as art galleries, the mesmerizing Ngilgi Cave, and the iconic Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse. And if you are lucky enough to visit during whale watching or wildflower season, prepare to be dazzled by nature’s spectacular shows!
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