jenolancaves

Thursday November 17th proved a great night for Jenolan Caves at the annual NSW Tourism Awards.

Jenolan had been successful in reaching the finals in six categories, in itself a record for any single attraction in NSW. Management and staff from Jenolan dressed up to attend the Gala Tourism Awards Dinner at Darling Harbour last Thursday, waiting in anticipation as the winners were announced. To the great delight of all, Jenolan began the evening by winning the Gold Award in the category of 'Heritage/Cultural Tourism'. This award was a terrific endorsement of how Jenolan staff bring the history of the site to life for our visitors, celebrating the proud heritage of tourism at the site that extends back to the 1860s. This award was soon followed by Silver for Adventure Tourism! Adventure caving has become a major part of what Jenolan offers to visitors. Everyone held their breath shortly afterwards for the announcement of the 'Best Tourist Attraction'...Gold to Jenolan Caves!!! For the second year running, Jenolan took out this category and there was much rejoicing. Celebrations only increased when Jenolan won Silver in the Ecotourism category.

These four awards represented a record on the night. Although unsuccessful in the categories of 'Festivals and Events' and 'Tourism Restaurants', Jenolan was honoured to be a finalist in both these categories also.

The awards represent a great endorsement of Jenolan Caves from the Tourism Industry, but also a recognition of the quality of Jenolan's products but above all its staff. It is always the people who make the experiences, and Jenolan's staff are truly amongst the finest in the industry.

From here, it is on to the National Tourism Awards to be held in Cairns in March 2012. Jenolan has never won a national award before, but all shall be hoping that this changes early in 2012.