Entries are being invited from Certified EcoGuides for the 2008 William Angliss Institute National EcoGuide Awards for Excellence, to be presented at the Inaugural Conference on Green Travel, Climate Change and Ecotourism from 17-20 November in South Australia.

This award will honour a highly successful Certified EcoGuide in the Australian tourism industry whose skills and experience demonstrate that they are of an exceptional standard.

By presenting this award at our conference this will increase the awareness of the EcoGuide Program to the national and International community. Return travel to South Australia and attendance at the Conference and the awards ceremony will be provided to the winning entrant.

This award is only available to Ecotourism Australia ‘Certified EcoGuides’. The selection criteria for this award is detailed below.  The final date for applications is 17th October, 2008.

All applications are to be mailed to EcoGuide Awards.  PO Box 881. Fortitude Valley 4006, so you still have to time get your applications together and apply!

All nominees should address all of the following criteria:

1. All applicants must be Certified EcoGuides to apply for this Award.

2. Provide a general description (maximum 100 words) of your guiding experience. For example what types of guiding are you involved in, the size of groups, location, duration, frequency of tour.

3. Explain what motivates you and what you believe you contribute to the industry in your role as an EcoGuide. (maximum 100 words)

4. Provide a description of a recent guiding experience, stating the objectives, theme/message, targeted audience and the overall experience generated for the visitor. (maximum 100 words)

5. Explain the techniques and approaches that you use to interpret the indigenous, cultural and natural values on a tour. (maximum 100 words)

6. Describe the innovations in design and presentation that you use, to create a memorable and distinctive experience for your clients. (maximum 100 words)

7. Explain how you ensure a standard of quality in your customer service. Provide evidence of this, with documentation such as letters of appreciation, visitor book comments and surveys etc. (maximum 100 words)

Your submission should be no longer than 4 A4 pages in length.

The winner of this award will be selected from a shortlist of finalists by a specialised judging panel. Finalists may be asked to attend a telephone interview with the judging panel.

Applications close 5.00pm Friday 17th October.

All applications are to be mailed to:

EcoGuide Awards
PO Box 881
Fortitude Valley QLD 4006