About the Awards

‘The Victorian Tourism Awards represent an industry framework for peer recognition which fosters a culture for business development excellence and innovation'.

The VTA have assisted the Victorian Tourism Industry for 26 years in striving for excellence. During this period, more than 3,000 businesses have entered the Awards and have benefited through thorough examination of their business practice, with many recognised as winners at a national level.

The VTA are highly reflective of the state of the Victorian tourism industry. The Awards act as a development opportunity in the skills training and professionalism and play an integral role in encouraging and rewarding excellence, innovation and commitment in the industry.

The awards help to raise standards through a structured submission process of self-assessment through the preparation of a written document which is then reviewed by industry peers who respond carefully to defined national criteria. The Awards process culminates in a night that recognises and promotes outstanding achievement by those at the heart of the industry.

The VTA Gala Ceremony is a key communication platform as it has become the one time each year that more than 1,000 stakeholders assemble from across the State. A successful Awards program and gala event translates into business success and a solid group of professional and committed businesses.

The program enjoys the support of the Minister for Tourism, the Hon. Tim Holding MP, and the industry’s peak bodies. The VTA is arguably the most successful single gathering of the tourism and allied industries in Victoria, bringing together the key industry associations, operators, suppliers and state government stakeholders.

Competitive Advantages and Benefits

The recognition and rewarding of quality and innovative businesses translates into a number of competitive advantages and benefits. These include, but are not limited to:

  • a business development program and a mechanism to formally record business achievements, take pride in these achievements and encourage annual goal setting;
  • identifying businesses that are excelling so other businesses can start to benchmark themselves against professionals;
  • an opportunity to win recognition as Victoria’s and possibly Australia’s best and be showcased to the industry and the public as a result of media exposure;
  • networking as a result of seminars, workshops, the presentation ceremony etc;
  • an endorsement of businesses and reward for years of hard work;
  • a competitive and marketable edge that will bring new business; and
  • an opportunity to recognise tourism excellence in Victoria.

Award participants have their say

 "I didn't think we would win but we did and it has had such an effect on my staff and business perceptions. We have seen a 17% increase since we won, plus increased local community support with volunteers, functions and sponsorships"
Peter Abbott, Manager Tourism Services Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, Hall of Fame Winner (Tourist Attractions).

"Process straight forward and time lines are very clear. Can't see how it can be made easier"
Ross Digby, Associate Director Centre for Hospitality, Cookery & Bakery Homlesglen. Winner 2008 & 2009 (Tourism Education & Training).

The whole process is incredibly worthwhile and we are very keen to enter again next year to see if we can’t improve through the experience gained in the initial year.
Peter McConvill, Director/Proprietor, Shizuka Ryokan Japanese Country Spa & Wellness Retreat (Unique Accommodation).

 "My Mentor went above and beyond my expectations of the mentoring service. She thoroughly read my draft submission and her advice was much appreciated in shaping the final submission. Not only was she a 'second set of eyes', but she drew on her expertise in having completed winning submissions. I was really glad I registered for the mentoring program and would highly recommend it for entrants". Penny Olive, Business Development Manager Conservation Volunteers Australia, Winner (Excellence in Sustainable Tourism).

Feedback from VTA 2009 Participants Survey:

What was the most beneficial aspect of the Awards program?

Most beneficial was the time spent with our Mentor and site visit Judge

Best was having my staff and volunteers understand they are in a national industry and have the opportunity to be the best. We may not have the biggest business or biggest budget, but we are doing well with the assets we have and service and attention to detail count for so much.

Improved business practices and staff pride in our workplace.

The networking in the tourism industry, recognition within the tourism industry amongst our colleagues.

Great motivation, excellent recognition from tourism peers. Wonderful to have met so many others from around the state as part of the process. being able to hoan in on areas that need developing across the business. During the submission writing process we were able to see where our business has come from and how far we have grown.

The process of analysing our aspects of our business made us feel very positive and confident about our product.

Identified business strengths and gaps of what we could be doing. Also allowed a review of what had actually been achieved.

The Awards submission provides a useful working document for other projects, reports and business planning.

The workshops and the chance to read previous winner's entries was greatly appreciated along with the Mentor program.

Participation in the VTA marketing program and gaining media coverage throughout the year.
Last Updated on Monday, 12 April 2010 15:18