The Murray region’s award tally included three gold, three silver, one bronze and three outstanding finalist recognitions, with local operators among the winners.
Daniel Mackrell took home a silver award for his business, My Coffee Cart, while Wisps of Wool Retreat owner Lynn Mason was chosen as an outstanding finalist.
Campaspe Shire Council and Goolwa River Retreat were also recognised as outstanding finalists in their respective categories.
Mr Mackrell’s business has grown from a single cart into a multi-cart regional operation, with its success strongly driven by his sons, Logan and Nathan.
“My Coffee Cart wouldn’t be where it is today without Logan and Nathan. Logan delivers the frontline experience we’re known for, while Nathan’s dedication to the coffee beans is exceptional,” Mr Mackrell said.
“This award validates the passion, hard work and vision of our entire team. It proves that regional operators can lead the way in tourism innovation, sustainability and customer experience.”
Following the award, Mr Mackrell announced his business was expanding to Milawa in the King Valley region, and would work towards reaching a goal of up to 200 carts nationally in coming years.
Ms Mason said seeing Wisps of Wool Retreat make it as a finalist in the first year of entering the awards was an incredible honour.
“We are so proud to be recognised among so many amazing businesses in the Murray,” she said.
“It was lovely to be surrounded by such a supportive group of people from our region and to experience it all together in person.”
Murray Regional Tourism chief executive Cameron Sutton said it was one of the strongest award seasons on record for the Murray region.
He said the results showcased the depth, diversity and excellence of visitor experiences that continued to position the Murray as one of Australia’s most compelling regional destinations.
“Our operators, event organisers and tourism teams work hard to create experiences that capture the heart of the Murray,” Mr Sutton said.
“To see so many of them recognised across Victoria and NSW shows the strength of our region and the passion that drives it.”
Mr Sutton said Murray Regional Tourism was especially proud to have been awarded silver for its Mates of the Murray campaign.
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