NEWCASTLE HOSPITALITY & TOURISM AWARDS 2024

The Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards honour outstanding contributions in four categories: Employee of the Year, Employer of the Year, Industry Support Partner of the Year, and Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year.

The scope of the awards is deliberately set to encompass the gamut of the visitor economy, from hotels and restaurants to tour operators and event organisers.

The Awards are open to Newcastle tourism and hospitality businesses and their staff, as well as to all members of NTIG. The awardees and two finalists in each category were announced and received their trophies at the Newcastle Tourism & Hospitality Gala on May 27th, 2024 at Foghorn Brewery.

A few highlights from our 2024 Hospitality & Tourism Gala

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Employee of the Year

With so many in hospitality and tourism going the extra mile for their guests and patrons, this award will honour someone who has taken commitment and dedication to the next level, whether it be through extraordinary commitment to making their guests feel special, through training or personal development.

Employer of the Year

Off a very difficult three years, employers in tourism and hospitality have had to be flexible and resilient, forward-thinking and at times slightly stoic in the face of ever new challenges and demands on running their businesses – all the while making sure that their guests have a terrific experience, and enjoy food, drink and great times.

Industry Support Partner of the Year

The tourism and hospitality industries are working hard to provide stellar service to guests, but we couldn’t do it alone, so we are asking all members of NTIG to nominate one of their partners for their outstanding support, for helping them create the magic and allowing them to focus on what they do best.

Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year

Recognising operators who excel in inclusivity, this award highlights those making every guest feel truly valued. From accessibility and cultural sensitivity to diversity training, it celebrates establishments that create welcoming spaces for all, showcasing the rich tapestry of our community in their service.

Employee of the Year - 2024

Winner – Tamara Young, The University of Newcastle

Finalist – Laura McGrath, City of Newcastle

Finalist – Mia Shorter, Quest Apartments Newcastle & Newcastle West

Employer of the Year - 2024

Winner – Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club

Finalist – Oakvale Wildlife Park

Finalist – Quest Apartments Newcastle & Newcastle West

Industry Support Partner of the Year - 2024

Winner – Out of the Square

Finalist – Aerologistics

Finalist – The University of Newcastle Business School

Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year - 2024

Winner – Oakvale Wildlife Park

Finalist – Earp Distilling Co.

Finalist – Quest Apartments Newcastle & Newcastle West

Employee of the Year - 2023

Winner – Eduardo Molina, Flotilla

Finalist – Rachel Doyle, Foghorn Brewery

Finalist – Alexander Crelley, Hunt Hospitality

Employer of the Year - 2023

Winner – Reflections Holidays

Finalist – Oakvale Wildlife Park

Finalist – Foghorn Brewery

Industry Support Partner of the Year - 2023

Winner – Gus & Louise Maher

Finalist – Out of the Square

Finalist – The Business Centre