Bob Kucera

Bob Kucera

Former Minister for Disability Services; Sport and Recreation; Citizenship and Multicultural Interests; Seniors

    Spotlight on Tourism Awards

    30/10/2004 8:30 PM
     
    30/10/04

    Tourism Minister Bob Kucera recognised the efforts of more than 100 finalists tonight at the annual Western Australian Tourism Awards.

    Awards were given across 27 categories including the hotly contested ‘Significant Tourist Attraction’, ‘General Tourism Services’, ‘Significant Tour and Transport Operators’, ‘Adventure Tourism’, ‘Tourism Wineries’, and ‘Accommodation’ categories.

    “I am particularly pleased to see the increase in new entrants to this year’s awards,” Mr Kucera said.

    “The global tourism environment is incredibly competitive and seeing new product of such high calibre is what we need to ensure WA remains a place visitors want to come and see.

    “It is also great to see local government getting so involved, since it plays such an enormous part in ensuring the quality of the tourist experience promotion in WA.

    “Innovation and commitment to achieving standards of excellence underpin the success of the WA tourism industry.

    “The finalists are wonderful role models - showing that a commitment to a quality product pays off. It benefits your business and our State.”

    The Minister said the State Government had provided a $1.75million boost to Tourism Western Australia’s long-term brand campaign for the State - ‘Western Australia, the real thing’.

    “The campaign really captures the essence of WA and the fact that you can enjoy everything from visiting our magnificent old growth forests to swimming with whale sharks,” he said.

    “State Government backing for the campaign has been made possible by the Gallop Government’s consistent delivery of balanced budgets, allowing us to invest this money into growing future jobs in our tourism industry.

    “Another big winner for tourism in WA is our new web presence, http://www.westernaustralia.com which is driving record increases in the number of inquiries and as a consequence, business flowing through to the State.

    “Tourism is one of the WA’s key economic drivers and plays an important part in creating jobs and triggering growth in regional areas.

    “Award nights such as this demonstrate that the future of this very important industry is in good hands.”

    Minister's office: 9213 7000