Congratulations to the winners of the 2026 Brolga Northern Territory Tourism Awards which were announced at a gala ceremony at the Alice Springs Convention Centre on Saturday 14 November 2026.
Major Tourist Attractions - Darwin Waterfront
The Darwin Waterfront is a tropical oasis, located in the heart of Darwin. Centred around a man-made saltwater lagoon, the Waterfront is fringed by swaying palm trees, lush lawns and a vibrant hospitality scene. The Waterfront is home to the Darwin Convention Centre, the popular Wave Lagoon and numerous tourism operators and recreational facilities. Welcoming an average of 900,000 visitors each year, the experience the Darwin Waterfront has created showcases the vibrancy of the Top End in harmony with its natural beauty.
Tourist Attractions - Alice Springs Desert Park
Located just 10 minutes from Alice Springs at the base of the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs Desert Park is a unique attraction showcasing the landscapes, wildlife and living cultures of Central Australia. Set within 1,300 hectares and recognised as a registered botanic garden, the Park combines conservation, immersive visitor experiences, Aboriginal cultural interpretation and environmental education in one destination. Through close encounters with desert wildlife, engaging presentations and authentic cultural experiences, visitors gain a deeper understanding of Australia's desert environment and the importance of protecting its natural and cultural heritage.
Major Festivals and Events - Darwin Festival
Darwin Festival is the Northern Territory's flagship arts and cultural major event and one of Australia's most distinctive destinations. Each August, it transforms Darwin into a vibrant celebration of creativity, culture and connection, attracting audiences from across Australia while showcasing the unique character of the Top End. Through outstanding artistic experiences, community participation and unforgettable tropical settings, the Festival strengthens the Territory's cultural identity, supports local artists and businesses, drives visitation and delivers significant economic and social benefits.
Festivals and Events - Darwin Comedy Festival 2026
Darwin Comedy Festival held at AANT Centre, is the Northern Territory’s major comedy event, bringing three days of world-class laughs to the Top End. Following its successful launch in 2025, the 2026 Festival drew over 5,200 attendees and featured comedy heavyweights including Jimmy Rees, Em Rusciano, Mel Buttle, Nat’s What I Reckon, Akmal, Lizzy Hoo and The Umbilical Brothers, alongside rising stars and the best of Territory talent. Now firmly established on Darwin’s cultural calendar, Darwin Comedy Festival showcases national and international comedy while putting the Territory centre stage.
Ecotourism - Territory Wildlife Park
Located at Berry Springs, just south of Darwin, Territory Wildlife Park showcases the wildlife, landscapes and cultural stories that make northern Australia unlike anywhere else. Set across 400 hectares of natural bushland, the park is home to monsoon forests, savannah woodlands, thriving wetland ecosystems and some of the Top End's most iconic species. Through wildlife encounters, presentations and immersive experiences, visitors gain a deeper appreciation of the region's unique plants, animals and habitats. For more than 35 years, Territory Wildlife Park has combined tourism, conservation and education to share the natural heritage of the Northern Territory.
Cultural Tourism - Venture North Safaris
Venture North Safaris delivers high-end, bespoke, micro-group tours into Australia’s wildest, most remote and culturally significant landscapes. Based in Darwin, it offers personalised, nature and culture-based journeys across the Top End, giving guests privileged access to Arnhem Land and the Cobourg Peninsula, as well as Kakadu, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks. At the heart of Venture North’s operations is its privately operated Cobourg Coastal Camp, an exclusive wilderness retreat on the far northern coastline of the Cobourg Peninsula. Guests stay in safari-style tents tucked along the clifftop, with experiences ranging from fishing and mud-crabbing to cultural, heritage and wildlife tours.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Tourism Experience - Nitmiluk Tours
100% owned and operated by Jawoyn Traditional Owners, Nitmiluk Tours delivers seven distinct Aboriginal tourism experiences as part of Tourism Australia’s Discover Aboriginal Experiences program; the highest number offered by a single operator nationwide. Reflecting a global shift towards more meaningful, responsible travel, each tour is guided by the Jawoyn philosophy to “Share Our Country”. Exclusive experiences connect visitors to Nitmiluk Gorge and its 10,000-year-old rock art, celebrating a living cultural legacy. Daily tours are led by Jawoyn guides, with deeper learning through elder-led activities, alongside continued investment in 2026 to train the next generation of cultural custodians.
Tourism Retail, Hire and Services - Outback Cycling
Outback Cycling believes the best way to experience the heart of Australia is on two wheels. As the only cycling operator at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, its self-guided bike hire gives visitors the freedom to explore the iconic 15.5km Uluru base loop at their own pace. With a fleet of over 120 bikes, including tag-a-long bikes, toddler seats and a tricycle, families, couples and solo travellers can all take part. In 2025, the business introduced a guided cycling tour in response to customer demand.
Visitor Information Services - Top End Visitor Information Centre
The Top End Visitor Information Centre has connected visitors with the Northern Territory’s Top End for over 50 years. Located in the heart of Darwin, it provides trusted visitor information, personalised itinerary planning and bookings across a remarkable 245,000 square kilometre region. As the visitor-facing arm of Tourism Top End, the region’s independent Regional Tourism Organisation, the Visitor Information Centre connects travellers with over 500 tourism businesses across Darwin, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Litchfield, Katherine and beyond. Its knowledgeable team helps visitors navigate the Top End with confidence, discover more, stay longer and experience the region’s extraordinary people, places and cultures.
Business Event Venues - Darwin Convention Centre
Darwin Convention Centre is a world-class business events venue and the centrepiece of the Darwin Waterfront Precinct. Managed by leading venue management specialists Legends Global, Darwin Convention Centre hosts hundreds of business events every year, offering delegates space to think, opportunities to learn and time to network. With 23,000 sqm of space, the Centre hosts national and international conferences, large exhibitions and gala dinners, award ceremonies, meetings and seminars, concerts and sporting events. Since opening in 2008, the Centre and its team of professionals have built a reputation for delivering outstanding events, first-class food and excellent customer service.
Major Tour and Transport Operators - AAT Kings
AAT Kings is renowned for delivering exceptional Northern Territory experiences, drawing on more than a century of exploration and expertise. Their deep understanding of the region's landscapes, culture, and communities allows visitors to experience both celebrated icons and hidden treasures. Guided by passionate Travel Directors and Driver Guides, guests can enjoy unforgettable experiences, from dining close to Uluru and discovering the vibrant culture of the Tiwi Islands to exploring the rugged beauty of the West MacDonnell Ranges. Every journey offers an immersive, off-the-beaten-track adventure that showcases the very best of the Territory.
Tour and Transport Operators - Uluru Segway Tours
Uluru Segway Tours is a small Australian owned business, offering one-of-a-kind small group tours within World Heritage Listed Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. On tour participants learn from knowledgeable guides about local Aboriginal culture, flora, fauna, history and geology. For travellers who aren’t confident speaking English the company provides complimentary GPS triggered audio guides in 6 languages, ensuring no one misses out on learning about one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks. For travellers looking to experience Uluru, learn from knowledgeable guides and create lifelong memories, a tour with Uluru Segway Tours ticks all the boxes.
Adventure Tourism - Trek Larapinta by Trek Tours Australia
For more than 25 years, Trek Tours Australia has set the benchmark for guided trekking adventures through Trek Larapinta, welcoming Australian and international guests to experience one of Australia's most iconic long distance trails. Combining expert guides, genuine small groups and exceptional safety, delivering immersive wilderness adventures that challenge, inspire and transform. Carefully crafted itineraries make one of Australia's greatest treks accessible to adventurers without compromising authenticity. Every journey fosters meaningful connections with Tjoritja / West MacDonnell Ranges, its rich cultural heritage and the lasting sense of achievement that comes from completing one of Australia's most rewarding trekking experiences.
Tourism Marketing and Campaigns - Tourism Central Australia ‘Head for the Heart’
Tourism Central Australia is the regional tourism organisation that represents and supports the businesses that bring the Northern Territory's Red Centre to life. In 2026 the team delivered Head for the Heart: a full-funnel strategy designed to move travellers through inspiration, consideration and booking. Through Beyond the Icons, Niche Traveller and See More, Save More, the campaign broadened perceptions of the region, connected with high-intent traveller passions and converted demand into measurable economic activity. It brought renewed energy and hope to industry, encouraged visitors to explore further, stay longer and spend more, and generated millions of dollars in visitor expenditure.
Tourism Restaurants and Catering Services - Nitmiluk Tours and Cicada Restaurant
Located at Nitmiluk Gorge, Nitmiluk Tours and Cicada Restaurant’s combined dining offering sets a benchmark for Australian culinary excellence. The hospitality team offers a diverse, destination driven restaurant experience, including the Nabilil Dreaming Sunset Dinner Cruise; blending rock art, river touring and ‘under the stars’ dining to boutique event catering and refined dining at Cicada Lodge. Each experience is led by Executive Chef Adam Woods and celebrates innovative native cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. As a 100% Indigenous-owned operation, it also serves as a vital hospitality training hub for Jawoyn people and underpins the wider operations of Nitmiluk National Park.
Caravan and Holiday Parks - Aspen Holidays Darwin FreeSpirit
Aspen Holidays Darwin FreeSpirit is one of the Northern Territory's largest and most awarded holiday parks, offering a unique blend of resort-style facilities, genuine Territory hospitality and unforgettable guest experiences. Located just 15 minutes from Darwin's CBD, the tropical resort features cabins, caravan and camping sites, a poolside bar and bistro, family-friendly facilities, weekly entertainment and a dedicated function venue. Through continuous investment, innovation and a passionate team, Darwin FreeSpirit has evolved into more than a place to stay—it is a destination where families, couples, corporate travellers and locals create lasting memories and experience the best of the Top End.
Hosted Accommodation - Athelle Outback Hideaway
Nestled in the heart of Northern Territory, Athelle Outback Hideaway is a unique station stay offering guests an authentic outback experience. Proudly family-run, Athelle showcases true Territory hospitality with a focus on sustainability, education and connection. Located 190km north of Alice Springs, the property blends comfort with adventure, offering a range of accommodations including cabins, lush grassy campsites, and eco bush sites. Guests enjoy hands-on farm activities, animal encounters, BBQ nights, and unforgettable starry skies. It’s more than a place to stay, it’s where stories are shared, memories are made, and visitors leave feeling like part of the outback family.
Unique Accommodation - Gorge View Bush Retreat
Gorge View Bush Retreat is a unique outback accommodation experience located near Nitmiluk National Park, just outside Katherine. Surrounded by rugged landscapes and expansive skies, the retreat offers glamping, eco-safari tents and unpowered sites. Guests are encouraged to slow down, reconnect and experience the region through spectacular sunsets, nature, wellbeing activities, cultural encounters and relaxed outdoor hospitality. With sustainability, authenticity, wellbeing and community at its heart, Gorge View Bush Retreat provides an immersive alternative to conventional accommodation, creating memorable experiences that connect visitors with the landscape, local culture and spirit of the Northern Territory.
Self Contained Accommodation - Yanawal Units
Yanawal Units, a luxury retreat, proudly 100% Indigenous owned by Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation is nestled in the coastal town of Nhulunbuyin the heart of East Arnhem Land. Yanawal Units offers 15 thoughtfully designed self-contained rooms, each featuring a comfortable queen bed, modern comforts, and striking Indigenous artwork from Yolŋu country. Each unit blends elegant design and comfort with serene bushland views. It is a gateway to the breathtaking beauty of East Arnhem Land, its rich culture, pristine landscapes, hidden gems, and warm tropical waters offering some of the best fishing in the world.
3 - 3.5 Star Accommodation - Safari Lodge Motel
Safari Lodge Motel is an award-winning 3.5-star motel in Tennant Creek, proudly 100% Aboriginal-owned by Manungurra Aboriginal Corporation. Its 18 modern rooms provide a clean and comfortable place to stay for business, leisure and self-drive travellers visiting the Barkly region. Known for friendly service and genuine outback hospitality, Safari Lodge has built a strong reputation with both new and returning guests. The motel also creates benefits beyond accommodation through local employment, community support and Aboriginal economic participation. Safari Lodge shows how a successful tourism business can provide an excellent visitor experience while contributing positively to the Tennant Creek community.
4 - 4.5 Star Deluxe Accommodation - H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel
H on Mitchell Apartment Hotel is a locally owned, independently operated 4.5-star property in central Darwin. Its studios and spacious one and two-bedroom apartments combine the flexibility of apartment living with full hotel services, including Lizards Bar and Restaurant, a heated outdoor pool, gym, secure parking and 24-hour reception. H is recognised for personalised service, accessible accommodation and the strong relationships its team builds with corporate, leisure, family and extended-stay guests. H n Mitchell Apartment Hotel continues to invest in its people, product, technology and community partnerships while providing visitors with a welcoming and distinctly Darwin experience.
5 Star Luxury Accommodation - Cicada Lodge
Cicada Lodge offers a luxury experience defined by authenticity, enrichment, and exceptional service. Nestled in the heart of Nitmiluk National Park and 100% Indigenous-owned, it provides exclusive access to ancient Jawoyn culture and landscapes. With 18 elegantly appointed rooms, each featuring Indigenous artwork, private balconies, and high-end amenities, Cicada blends modern comfort with cultural depth. Guests enjoy gourmet native-inspired cuisine, including the Chef’s seasonal menu and award-winning dining. Curated itineraries include helicopter tours, gorge cruises, and cultural immersion. Backed by a skilled tourism team, Cicada delivers personalised, anticipatory service that today’s discerning travellers seek in meaningful luxury travel.
New Tourism Business - Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk
The Uluru-Kata Tjuta Signature Walk, developed in consultation with Anangu Traditional Owners, is a multi-day guided journey that invites you to explore the Kakararra Trail inside the UNESCO World Heritage-listed National Park. Walking between the domes of Kata Tjuta and the mesmerising Uluru, each day blends unforgettable landscapes with the comfort of glamping and private lodge accommodation, offering outback luxuries, nourishing meals and a dedicated Wellness Centre. Visitors hear ancestral stories, learn about caring for Country, share fireside moments under vast desert skies and experience the rare privilege of walking on land only walked by Anangu for over 30,000 years.
Excellence in Accessible Tourism - Yanawal Units
Yanawal Units, a luxury retreat, proudly 100% Indigenous owned by Rirratjingu Aboriginal Corporation is nestled in the coastal town of Nhulunbuy, in the heart of East Arnhem Land. Yanawal Units combines comfort, accessibility and cultural connection across its 15 self-contained rooms. Two purpose-built Accessible Superior Rooms offer full wheelchair access, support rails and thoughtfully designed layouts that enhance mobility and independence. Guests can enjoy modern comforts, a queen bed and striking Indigenous artwork from Yolŋu Country in every room. With staff trained to recognise and respond to diverse accessibility needs, Yanawal Units ensures a welcoming and inclusive experience for all visitors.
NT only and individual categories
George Dunne Award Outstanding Contribution by an Individual - Manuel Pamkal, Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experience
Manuel Pamkal is an trailblazer of Aboriginal tourism in the Northern Territory, dedicating more than 40 years to tourism, language and cultural sharing. Manuel designed the first Barunga Festival poster in 1985, witnessed the Barunga Statement being presented to Bob Hawke in 1988, and in 2026 was the only Aboriginal tour guide offering Barunga Festival tours. From tourism employee in the 1980s to business owner in 2024, Manuel’s warmth, knowledge, storytelling and traditional skills have created meaningful cultural exchanges for generations of visitors. Today, through Dalabon Aboriginal Cultural Experiences, he continues sharing culture on his own terms.
Best Territory Tourism Marketing Activity - Uluru Segway Tours
Uluru Segway Tours launched an innovative digital marketing campaign to boost awareness and capture demand from Chinese travellers visiting Uluru in the Northern Territory. The campaign centred around launching an official account on Chinese social media platform, RedNote. The initiative provided Chinese visitors with tailored digital content and a seamless booking path. The campaign successfully drove strong commercial growth and connected international travellers with an unforgettable Red Centre experience, a Segway tour at Uluru.
Chair's Choice Award - Cicada Lodge
This year, Cicada Lodge is the recipient of the Chair’s Choice Award for their focus on seasonal produce, native Australian ingredients across their dining and peaceful luxury accommodation, with strong guest satisfaction and impressive resilience through a challenging year. They demonstrated a strong sense of cultural identity and connection to community, and how these values are embedded in the way the business operates and the experiences are delivered.
Tourism Minister's Perpetual Trophy - Lisa Mumbin OAM
Lisa Mumbin OAM as the recipient of the 2026 Tourism Minister’s Perpetual Trophy.
Lisa is a respected Jawoyn Elder and leader, she has been a tireless advocate for her people, her community and the sustainable development of tourism across the Northern Territory. A deserving recipient for her support and growth of Aboriginal tourism experiences in Nitmiluk National Park and providing memorable visitor experiences while creating employment and economic opportunities for Jawoyn people and the broader community