ADVANCED ECO ACCREDITATION FOR REEF SANCTUARIES
Thursday, 17 November 2005
Ecotourism Australia has awarded Voyages Heron and Wilson Islands "Advanced Certification". The accreditation is internationally recognised as one of the most respected endorsements for economic, environmental and social tourism practices.
According to Voyages CEO Grant Hunt, Ecotourism Australia's "ecoCERTIFIED" program is a world first and has been developed by industry, for industry and addresses the need to identify and reward genuine ecotourism and nature tourism operators.
"The Voyages philosophy demands that we employ policies and practices endorsed by Ecotourism Australia and we were naturally excited to learn that two of our most ecologically sensitive island operations received the recognition they deserve," said Mr Hunt.
Heron and Wilson Islands are unique because they are coral cays and part of the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Situated 72km off the Queensland coast and Gladstone, the two islands offer an array of ecotourism experiences.
In order to achieve Advanced Certification from Ecotourism Australia the properties had to demonstrate practices that matched 10 key principles of economic, environmental and social sustainability, through a rigorous submission process..
Heron and Wilson Islands demonstrated excellent business management and operational planning, business ethics, responsible marketing, high levels of customer satisfaction, a natural area focus, environmental sustainability, interpretation and education programs, contribution to conservation, close ties with the local community, and cultural respect and sensitivity.
According to Ecotourism Australia, this certification provides industry, protected area managers, local communities, and travellers with an assurance that a certified product is backed by a commitment to best practice ecological sustainability, natural area management, and the provision of quality ecotourism experiences.
Assessment of Heron and Wilson Islands was conducted by an independent trained Assessor who reviewed and scored the properties. The Assessor's report was then considered by Ecotourism Australia's Assessment Panel.
Voyages is an Australian travel company, providing experience-based holidays in spectacular wilderness locations including the Red Centre, Queensland, The Kimberley and Tasmania. Voyages operate award-winning properties such as Ayers Rock Resort, Longitude 131°, Lizard Island, Silky Oaks Lodge and Cradle Mountain Lodge.