Staff at the Western Australian Museum – Geraldton are celebrating a silver award in the 2010 WA Tourism awards, announced at the Burswood Entertainment Complex in Perth on Saturday.

The Museum was an entry in the Tourist Attractions, one of the most heavily contested categories.

WA Museum chief executive officer Alec Coles said he was delighted with the award.

“The WA Museum – Geraldton was up against strong competition from organisations with international standing as tourist attractions in this State, so we are justifiably proud of our team at Geraldton,” he said.

“The award is an excellent tribute to their hard work and commitment to creating a world-class Museum for Geraldton and the Mid-West that serves its community both as a resource for the region and as a visitor destination.”

WA Museum – Geraldton manager Catherine Belcher said that the partnerships and events throughout 2009-2010 had all contributed to a strong submission.

“We partnered with a number of organisations including the Geraldton Yacht Club and the City of Geraldton-Greenough for the Clipper Round the World Yacht race, we also had a high number of cruise ship visitors to the Museum and well-attended community events for the International Year of Astronomy and the International Year of Biodiversity,” she said.

“I’d like to thank the City of Geraldton-Greenough who, over the last couple of years, has made it easier to become a known visitor destination through their strong support of the tourism sector.

“I would also like to thank our contractors who help maintain our building, which allows us to present it so beautifully to visitors, our colleagues in WA Museum’s other destinations in Fremantle, Perth, Albany and Kalgoorlie, and our dedicated team at WA Museum Geraldton who strive every day to give visitors and locals alike a fun and memorable experience.”

Ms Belcher said she would encourage more Mid West tourism operators to consider the awards for future years.

“While it takes time to go through the submission process, taking part in WA’s premier tourism awards helps to focus us on our strengths and it is a great way to let the State’s tourism industry know about the outstanding options available in our region.”

Catherine Belcher on 9921 5080 or 0437 775109
Caroline Lacy on (08) 9212 3860 or 0414 381761