4 February 2022
Michael Johnson and some of the Moonlit Team at the RACV Tourism Awards
Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park was thrilled to be announced as the gold winner of the Ecotourism category at the RACV 2021 Victorian Tourism Awards. This is the third time the Sanctuary has won gold in this category over 3 consecutive years, bringing its entry into the coveted Hall of Fame.
Moonlit Sanctuary has won Gold in Ecotourism five times, in 2010, 2014, 2018, 2019 and 2021 (current).
“As a privately-owned Sanctuary, our aim is to grow awareness of the work we do towards conservation and endangered species recovery. We were particularly pleased to receive the highest level of recognition for Ecotourism as this category reflects our values,” said Michael Johnson, Founder and Director of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park.
“Our commitment to conservation is pivotal to our business and we do our best to keep our standards at the highest level possible. Our priority is to always give our visitors an engaging and meaningful experience and it is an immense honour to have our efforts recognised”.
Michael said, “The last two years have been extremely difficult for everyone in the Tourism Industry. 2021 was our 20th anniversary, and we are proud to have achieved 20 years of bringing people and wildlife together. We are now looking forward to renewal and growth for ourselves and all our friends and colleagues in the industry.”
For over 30 years the Victorian Tourism Awards have showcased and recognised the state’s leaders in tourism excellence. The Awards encourage businesses to meet and strive to exceed industry standards. The awards play an integral role in rewarding business excellence, innovation, industry professionalism and collaboration.
Felicia Mariani, Chief Executive of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, said, “After the past two years of struggle and challenge, these awards are a testament to the perseverance, passion and resilience of our tourism operators across the state. Nowhere is this more evident than in the incredible work of Moonlit Sanctuary. Not only have they had to try to keep a business running in the face of adversity, they also had the responsibility of providing for so many animals in their care when the business had no revenue to support this.
“Their commitment to excellence is a shining star in our industry and being part of this prestigious awards event is testament to their exemplary performance,” continued Felicia.
Moonlit Sanctuary are now finalists at the Qantas National Tourism Awards for Eco Tourism and look forward to representing Melbourne at this prestigious event at Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Convention Centre.
Threatened Species Tour