Celebrating local travel businesses
After what seems like a lifetime, borders are opening and South Australia will soon be welcoming interstate and international tourists once again.
In a further boost to the local travel industry, the recent South Australian Tourism Awards, hosted by the Tourism Industry Council South Australia (TiCSA), showcased the amazing attractions, operators and businesses from across our stunning state.
The South Australian Tourism Awards were an important opportunity to recognise and celebrate the excellence in tourism according to RAA Travel General Manager, Gina Norman.
“It was so wonderful to see so many people from the tourism sector to be able to come together and celebrate especially after a couple of tough years,’’ she said.
“One thing that can’t be doubted is the resilience and positivity of people that make up the tourism sector.’’
The team at samotor spoke to the winners of the three awards presented by Ms Norman, to get their thoughts about the enormous challenges the tourism industry has overcome and what the future has in store.
SeaLink – Winner of the Major Tour & Transport Operators Award
SeaLink carries thousands of tourists, commuters and vehicles from the mainland to idyllic Kangaroo Island each year and also provides a range of brilliant travel experiences.
SeaLink South Australia General Manager Sarah-Jane Tilbury spoke to samotor about why Kangaroo Island should be part of your future travel plans.
After a difficult couple of years for tourism in SA, what does it mean for SeaLink to be recognised as one of the state’s best operators in 2021?
It means the world to us. I’m so proud of the entire South Australian team who, even through the tough times, are committed to delivering brilliant experiences to our customers.
How has SeaLink navigated the pandemic successfully?
I don’t think it’s over just yet but what has stood us in good stead is that we’re agile and resilient and always focused on what is best for our customers and our people.
What long-term impacts do you think you’ll see as travel restrictions begin to ease and we start welcoming more domestic and international tourists?
The impact will be far-reaching, and I’m not sure travel will ever return to how it was pre-COVID-19.
That isn’t necessarily a bad thing either as everyone has had to rethink how they create exceptional customer experiences during a changing landscape.
So, I think expectation of excellence will be higher than ever. I am blessed with an exceptional team so we’re up for the challenge.
