At the Queensland Tourism Awards, it’s not just businesses that shine – outstanding people do too.
Each year, two special honours celebrate individuals whose passion and dedication have shaped the future of our industry: The Stephen Greg Bursary for Young Achiever of the Year and The Marie Watson-Blake Award for Outstanding Contribution by an Individual.
These awards recognise personal excellence, leadership and impact, spotlighting the people behind the success of Queensland tourism.
The Stephen Gregg Bursary for Young Achiever of the Year recognises an individual, less than 35 years of age, working in the tourism industry and their contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional tourism industry.
The recipient receives a $10,000 bursary to support further education or skills development, jointly provided by QTIC and Tourism and Events Queensland.
Eloise Chaffers is a dynamic Queensland tourism leader with more than 10 years across hospitality, marketing, and sustainability. Eloise has worked tirelessly to drive community collaboration and a sustainable, inspiring future for Queensland tourism.
The Marie Watson-Blake Award recognises the extraordinary personal and professional achievement and contribution by an individual over many years to the Australian, and particularly the Queensland tourism industry.
Stewart Moore is a leading Asia Pacific planning and sustainability expert whose 30+ years in strategy, tourism development and risk management, including founding EarthCheck, have guided governments, industry and communities toward responsible enduring tourism futures.
2024 Recipients
Chelsea Handley, owner of Barefoot Tours and founder of Allbout Cairns, is a visionary leader in sustainable tourism. She advocates for responsible practices and industry unity, inspiring young entrepreneurs and promoting Cairns as a premier destination.
Elizabeth Hackett has dedicated over 30 years to Queensland’s tourism industry, starting with a backpacker hostel in Airlie Beach. Her leadership and innovation have transformed businesses and uplifted the entire tourism sector in the Whitsundays.
2023 Recipients
Hailey Brown is a Queensland entrepreneur who has become a catalyst for change within the tourism industry. Hailey created Vacayit, a digital program that works with events and hotels to promote inclusion through audio guides.
A true pioneer of ecotourism, Michael Hackett was a softly spoken and humble man who left an indelible mark on Queensland’s tourism landscape. The industry has been a major beneficiary of Michael’s hard-fought battles.