2026 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards

intouch Magazine
3 hours ago
2 min read

A diverse group of people stand attentively at an indoor event under warm lighting with string lights. A woman in an orange suit stands out. — Source: Newcastle Tourism Industry Group

The Prosperity Advisers 2026 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards have drawn an unprecedented number of entries across 12 categories, shining a spotlight on the strength and diversity of the region’s hospitality venues, tourism operators and industry partners. With so many high-quality submissions to consider, judges have been carefully assessing each entry to determine this year’s standouts.

“The response this year has been outstanding—not just in numbers, but in the overall standard,” said NTIG Chair and CoastXP founder Dominic May. “Every category is incredibly competitive, which really has raised the bar and reflects how much the sector continues to evolve.

“The judging process required a lot of time and consideration. There’s an incredible amount of talent and dedication on display, of businesses and individuals having a real impact on the visitor economy. Narrowing it down to three finalists in each category—and ultimately one winner—was definitely challenging.”

Further cementing the importance of the Awards and their role as a stepping stone towards state and even nation-wide honours, high-profile judges including from Destination Sydney Surrounds North, Business Hunter, the Australian Hotels Association, City of Newcastle, Newcastle Airport, University of Newcastle and NRMA Parks have added their expertise to the selection of finalists and winners.

While finalists are being revealed today, winners will be announced at the Awards Gala at Ravella on 18 May. Set to feature live music, great food, local wines and beers, and a festive atmosphere, it promises to be a standout evening on the industry calendar, bringing together professionals from across the sector to recognise achievements, to reconnect, and celebrate.

“We are delighted to be part of this year’s Awards,” said Allan McKeown, founder and CEO of naming rights sponsor Prosperity Advisers Group.

“Through our work with hospitality and tourism businesses, we see firsthand the professionalism, innovation and commitment to excellence that define this industry. The outstanding quality of entries and the fierce competition come as no surprise. I look forward to celebrating the finalists and congratulating the winners at the Awards Gala later this month.”

Awards Gala

Winners will be announced at the Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards Gala, held on Monday, 18 May 2026 at Ravella Newcastle from 6pm. Tickets include . Ticket are $99 for members and $119 for non-members (plus booking fees) and include live band, 5-hour beverage package of local wines and beers, ample canapés, finger food, pizza station and dessert.

Prosperity Advisers 2026 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards Finalists:

Industry Support Partner of the Year presented by PARAMOUNT LIQUOR

Hunter Valley Wine & Tourism Association

Earp Distilling Co.

EDL Consulting

Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year presented by CITY OF NEWCASTLE

Quest Newcastle

MOA & co

Reflections Holidays

Best New Visitor Economy Business presented by NEWCASTLE CRUISING YACHT CLUB

The Yellow Door Kitchen

Newy Food Adventures