Ash Bolt
Three Greater Geelong businesses have taken out major awards at the Victorian Tourism Awards.
Searoad Ferries, which operates the ferry between Queenscliff and Sorrento, Higher Mark and Geelong Gallery were announced as winners at the awards presentation last Thursday.
Searoad Ferries claimed the win in the major tour and transport operators category, Higher Mark won the business events venues category and Geelong Gallery won the cultural tourism category.
The gallery was commended for its collection, its capacity to deliver both popular and scholarly exhibitions and its contribution to Geelong’s economic and cultural renewal.
Geelong Gallery director and chief executive Jason Smith said the award was especially meaningful after the gallery was forced to close for much of the last two years.
“We have been overwhelmed with the goodwill and wishes from our community following this announcement. We are very proud of our Geelong Gallery team, in what has been a challenging two years with almost 250 days closed to the public,” he said.
“The award celebrates our resilience and ability to navigate the challenges presented by COVID-19. We are delighted to be recognised by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council and our industry colleagues across the sector through this award.
“Our purpose is to provide an inclusive experience of art that enriches people’s lives, this award pleasingly demonstrates we are achieving our purpose.
“We will continue to bring exhibitions of scale to Geelong to support the creative industries and tourism sector. Our data shows that major exhibitions such as RONE in Geelong and Archie 100 provide significant economic impact for accommodation, retail and hospitality in the Geelong CBD and the greater G21 region. This award celebrates our significant and meaningful contribution.”
For Searoad Ferries, it was the fourth time the family-run business had won the award, after claiming three successive titles from 2013 to 2015.
Chief executive Matt McDonald said winning the award was a credit to staff who had shown great resilience, innovation and dedication throughout the challenging times of the pandemic.
“Our team has worked hard to make the ferry crossing more than just a transport option,” he said.
“It’s fantastic to be recognised for the role we play in connecting visitors with the spectacular Bellarine and Mornington Peninsulas, and for the unique and unforgettable on-board experience we provide our customers during the crossing.”
Higher Mark, the Geelong Football Club’s hospitality arm, was recognised for its events and conference hosting, which include the Geelong Travel Expo, school graduations and corporate events.
Geelong Cats food and beverage general manager Andre Smaniotto, said the award was a terrific reflection of the Higher Mark team and their dedication to creating an exceptional customer experience.
“Higher Mark has been built on the values that have become synonymous with the way the Geelong Football Club operates,” he said.
“We pride ourselves on being Victoria’s largest regional events venue whilst still providing a personalised level of service from start to finish.”
The awards were presented by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council and chief executive Felicia Mariani said the awards recognised excellence in one of the most challenging periods for the tourism industry.
“This year’s celebration feels especially meaningful. We not only look to reward operators for their business excellence, but we want to recognise and celebrate the innovation, resilience, and commitment they have exhibited to weather the storm of the past two years,” she said.
