26 May 2026
Five individuals have been recognised for their outstanding contribution to the tourism industry at tonight’s Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference dinner in Carnarvon.
Gary Muir, from WOW Wilderness, won the Local Tourism Legend Award and was characterised by the judges as having made an exceptional and enduring contribution to Western Australia's South West tourism industry, dedicating more than three decades to building a Walpole experience defined by entrepreneurial leadership, environmental stewardship and deep community commitment.
The FACET Golden Guide Award winner was announced as Chantell Field from Busselton Jetty. Chantell’s vast knowledge in marine biology and her infectious and engaging personality stood out to the judges.
The Individual Excellence in Aboriginal Tourism Award was awarded to Bolo Angus from Southern Cross Cultural Tours at Lullumb. The judges said they were impressed by Bolo’s confident and positive outlook, and how he shared his Country's creation stories with travellers.
Marisa Pittuck, from Rottnest Island Pedal & Flipper, won the Individual Excellence in Customer Service Award, with judges appreciating Marisa’s wonderful mix of strategic tourism thinking, operational understanding, personal passion for excellence and commitment to the tourism industry.
The winner of the Individual Excellence by a Tourism Professional Award was announced as Nic Chirico from SurfPoint Resort, with the judges impressed by Nic's connection to community and her work outside her business.
“The Western Australian tourism industry is made possible thanks to the passionate people who tirelessly work towards showcasing WA to visitors,” Tourism Council WA Chief Executive Officer Evan Hall said.
“The individual awards provided an opportunity for five of these people to be recognised for their commitment to creating innovative and friendly experiences for Western Australia’s visitors,” he said.
The finalists in each category were:
FACET Golden Guide Award
- Chantell Field, Busselton Jetty Inc
- Alison Melvin, Forest Explorers
- Ann Newman, Casey Australia Tours
Individual Excellence by a Tourism Professional
- Scott Alderson, Crown Perth
- Nic Chirico, SurfPoint Resort
- Meghan Freind, Core Cider House
- Sandy Lombardi, Ibis Perth
Individual Excellence in Aboriginal Tourism
- Bolo Angus, Southern Cross Cultural Tours at Lullumb
- Rennee Turner, Wooramulla Eco Cultural Journeys
Individual Excellence in Customer Service
- Steven Anderson, Moonlight Bay Suites
- Noelene Evans, Rothwood
- Sandie Jouan, Broadwater Resort Busselton
- Alecia Macdonald, Busselton Jetty Inc
- Haley Morris, Skeetas Restaurant and Café
- Filippo Papacharalambous, Ultimate Watersports
- Marisa Pittuck, Rottnest Island Pedal & Flipper
