Questacon’s been nurturing inquisitive minds for decades. Photo: Questacon.
Questacon has been named the top Major Tourist Attraction at the recent 2024 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards.
It’s the latest accolade in a long list for the attraction formally known as the National Science and Technology Centre.
Questacon Director Jo White said the prestigious award, presented in Adelaide on Friday, was a testament to the team at Questacon and their unwavering commitment to inspiring Australians with science and technology.
“This award recognises the incredible staff, volunteers and supporters behind Questacon, and we thank our visitors – families, school groups, and curious minds of all ages. You are the reason we do what we do,” she said.
“The Questacon team brings energy, imagination, and expertise to all elements of the Questacon experience, helping our youngest and oldest visitors see the world through the lens of science, technology and innovation.
“At Questacon, we make science and technology fun, and importantly, we want more people engaged in science, particularly young people.”
The Major Tourist Attraction category celebrates Australia’s most significant natural and built attractions that deliver exceptional visitor experiences and attract large audiences.
Zoos Victoria – Melbourne Zoo took home silver in the category, while WA Museum Boola Bardip was awarded bronze.
Since it opened in 1988, Questacon has become an Australian tourism icon, welcoming up to 500,000 visitors annually to its Canberra centre.
The centre boasts more than 200 interactive exhibits across eight galleries, sparking curiosity and inspiring an interest in science and technology.
It also reaches more than 80,000 people annually across Australia through national touring and educator programs.
Questacon Tourism and Schools Experience Team Leader Rebecca Kiddy, Questacon General Manager Steve Stirling, Questacon Director Jo White and Questacon Centre Business Manager Megan Donaldson. Photo: Frankie The Creative.
Ms White also acknowledged the support of the broader tourism community.
“We are grateful to the Australian Tourism Industry Council, the National Capital Attractions Association, and Visit Canberra for championing tourism excellence in our region.
This national recognition follows Questacon’s recent win as Major Tourist Attraction at the Canberra Region Tourism Awards.
Questacon was far from the only Canberra business to be recognised at the national level.
The National Dinosaur Museum was awarded bronze in the Tourist Attractions category, while the Canberra and Region Visitors Centre took home bronze in the Visitor Information Services category, and Alivio Tourist Park scored a silver in the Caravan and Holiday Parks category.
The National Arboretum also did double duty, winning gold in the Ecotourism category and silver in Excellence in Accessible Tourism.
Meanwhile, FLIGHT: Drone SkyShow – National Capital Authority, the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, POP Canberra, Hotel Realm, Jamala Wildlife Lodge, Midnight Hotel Autograph Collection and Local Village Markets were all named finalists in their categories.
Additionally, several businesses from south-east NSW were recognised during the ceremony.
Cupitt’s Estate was a finalist in the Tourism Wineries, Distilleries and Breweries, while Holiday Haven Lake Conjola was one in the Caravan and Holiday Parks.
The diving and snorkelling business Beneath the Bay was also a finalist in the New Tourism Business category.
A full list of the award winners and the finalists can be found online.
Questacon is located on King Edward Terrace and is open from 9 am to 5 pm. Tickets can be purchased from Questacon.
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