Last night, Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre was honoured at the 2016 Canberra and Capital Region Tourism Awards, winning in four categories.
Questacon Director, Professor Graham Durant received the Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual. The prestigious Award recognises Professor Durant’s contribution in developing science engagement through creative tourism products, aimed at inspiring future generations of Australians.
“I am honoured to accept this Award which highlights the dynamic and innovative work of Questacon across the Canberra tourism industry, creating a national capital that excites, inspires and speaks to all Australians,” said Professor Durant.
Questacon won the Tourist Attraction category, recognising its commitment to tourism in the region.
“We support and promote the tourism visitor economy by providing a unique experience for visitors to Canberra and locals alike—hands-on discovery coupled with exceptional customer service,” said Professor Durant.
In accepting the Tourist Attraction Award, Professor Durant acknowledged Questacon’s industry partners, the National Capital Attractions Association, National Capital Educational Tourism Project and 3infun partners.
“Questacon delivers dynamic experiences for tourists, from new or visiting exhibitions, rotating displays and programmes or new activities to mark significant happenings in science, such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and National Science Week,” said Professor Durant.
Questacon employee Kate Landford was awarded the Markus Gibson-Huck Young Achiever Award recognising her outstanding contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional tourism industry. While the collaborative 3inFun ticket between Questacon, Cockington Green Gardens and the Australian Institute of Sport received the award for Destination Marketing.
Questacon’s iconic national science centre in the Parliamentary Zone is one of Canberra’s leading attractions, welcoming over 480 000 tourists annually. Each year, Questacon reaches more than three million people through a range of inspirational experiences designed to excite and motivate across two facilities in Canberra.
Questacon’s second facility, The Ian Potter Foundation Technology Learning Centre, offers school and holiday workshops and is the hub for Questacon’s national programmes and travelling exhibitions.
The annual Canberra and Capital Region Tourism Awards aim to showcase the best of the region’s tourist industry organisations and promotes, encourages and rewards tourism excellence.
Questacon will represent the Canberra and Capital Region at the 2016 Australian Tourism Awards in Darwin on 24 February 2017.
Media contact: Department of Industry, Innovation and Science 02 6213 6308 or media@industry.gov.au
