Organisers of the Yarra Valley Open Studios are delighted to have won the Gold Award for Best New Tourism Development at the 2009 Tourism Excellence Awards for the Yarra Valley and the Dandenongs.
The award recognises excellence in the planning of tourism infrastructure and/or services with a focus on entrepreneurial vision, harmonious integration with the environment, design and functionality and uniqueness of the service.
“This is really the icing on the cake for us after an extraordinary first year”, said Tim Peel on behalf of the organising group. “We set out to put arts on the tourism map for the Yarra Valley, and with a great team we’ve exceeded all our expectations to set up what we hope will continue to be one of the premier arts events for the region”, Peel said.
Special thanks were made to the wonderful artists of the Yarra Valley, without whom there would be no program, and who have shown that there is a wonderful depth and range for arts tourism in the region.
“This award for the 2009 Open Studios is a win for every artist in the program”, said Mike Emmett, marketing coordinator. “We had such a good product to offer the public in our artists, that our job was really one of packaging and taking to an audience.”
Organisers are well into preparations for the 2010 event, with applications for artists currently open (see yvopenstudios.net.au) and sponsors are being sought. With the enthusiasm already shown for the program, the Tourism Excellence Award is a tremendous boost to the team.
Congratulations are extended from the Open Studios organisers to silver award winners, Rayners Stone Fruit Orchard, and bronze winners, The Dandenong’s Garden Festival.
Further information:
Mike Emmett – Media: 0418 990 813, 5962 6166 – mike@yvopenstudios.net.au
Ali Griffin – Artist Liaison: 5962 5688 – ali@yvopenstudios.net.au
