The 15th Annual Cruise Industry Awards hosted by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Australasia was a gala night attended by more then 500 industry members from Australia and New Zealand.
The awards night also featured a spectacular performance by Australia’s leading talent Tina Arena, at The Star Event Centre where 19 winners were recognised in nine categories.
Western Australia’s Bicton Travel, won the Gold Agency of the Year for the fifth time. Bicton founder Carole Smethurst was elated and thanked her team of 24 staff.
“It’s an absolute honour to win this, but to win it five times is absolutely incredible,” Ms Smethurst said.
The Silver Award went to Travelrite International and King William Travel won Bronze.
Clean Cruising received the Online Agency of the Year award, while MTA’s Tracey Flower was recognised as Australia’s Mobile Agent of the Year. Oz Cruising won the Rising Star Award.
Scenic Founder Glen Moroney joined the CLIA Hall of Fame for his contribution in the river cruise sector. Scenic General Manager of Product, Aleisha Fittler accepted the award for Mr Moroney. “He is constantly driven to create the next big thing,” Ms Fittler said.
CLIA Australasia Chairman Gavin Smith said the 2015 awards dinner had been the best yet, with finalists and winners being recognised from right around Australia and New Zealand.
“Every year cruising in the Australasian region continues to evolve and it’s due to the tireless efforts of many in the industry. These awards are all about celebrating and applauding the hard work, passion and dedication of some of the most important players in the cruise industry – the travel agents who sell our cruises,” Mr Smith said.
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