Eleven Leading Australian Tourism Businesses Inducted into Ecotourism Australia's Hall of Fame

Eleven of Australia’s leading ecotourism operators have been inducted into Ecotourism Australia’s Hall of Fame, recognised for maintaining ECO Certification for an extraordinary 20 years. These long-term leaders join 59 other businesses previously honoured for their consistent commitment to world-class sustainability standards. 

Photo credits: Ecotourism Australia

A further 13 operators were acknowledged as Green Travel Leaders, celebrating a decade of ECO Certification and their enduring contribution to responsible tourism. 

Ecotourism Australia CEO, Elissa Keenan, said the recognition not only celebrates longevity but highlights the values and integrity these operators have demonstrated year after year. 

“Being inducted into the Hall of Fame reflects a remarkable 20-year commitment to world-leading sustainability standards,” said Ms. Keenan. “As the organisation who developed the world’s first national eco certification program, we’re honoured to recognise those who have been with us on the journey since our early days.”  

She added that both Hall of Fame inductees and Green Travel Leaders embody the values that underpin Ecotourism Australia’s certification programs. 

“Our Green Travel Leaders have demonstrated a decade of passion and consistency. Their work continues to raise the bar in delivering tourism experiences that are environmentally responsible and culturally respectful.” 

For many operators, this milestone is deeply personal. Jason Cleverley, General Manager of Cooinda Lodge in Kakadu National Park, said the Hall of Fame recognition was a powerful affirmation of their work in one of Australia’s most culturally and environmentally significant landscapes. 

“This milestone means a great deal to us. It’s not just a marker of time but of consistent values. Operating in Kakadu, we carry the responsibility of not only preserving but amplifying the stories, ecosystems and heritage of this land. 

The Hall of Fame recognition reaffirms the deep partnerships we’ve built with Traditional Owners, our commitment to low-impact operations, and our investment in Indigenous-led cultural tourism. It’s something every team member past and present can take pride in.” 

For Sunlover Reef Cruises, operating in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, sustainability is not optional—it’s fundamental. André MacLaughlin, Chief Operating Officer, said their long-standing certification has been a cornerstone of their business model. 

“Operating in one of the world’s most iconic marine environments, Ecotourism Australia certification is not just a choice, it’s a responsibility. 

Being certified for over two decades has given us a significant competitive advantage. It signals to guests, industry partners, and the broader tourism community that we are a credible, trusted operator with a long-standing commitment to sustainability. 

This recognition strengthens our brand, builds trust with eco-conscious travellers, and opens doors to meaningful collaborations with scientists, educators, and conservation organisations. Perhaps most importantly, it keeps us accountable, ensuring we remain at the forefront of best practices, innovation, and continuous improvement in reef stewardship.” 

Echoing this sentiment, Michael Johnson, Founder and Director of Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, emphasised the benefits of certification in both domestic and international markets. 

“Being a certified Ecotourism Australia operator for two decades has provided us with a trusted seal of quality and credibility. This has been especially advantageous in international markets, where visitors are increasingly seeking out authentic, environmentally responsible experiences.”  

This year's Hall of Fame and Green Travel Leader inductees are not only champions of sustainability—they are shaping the future of tourism in Australia and beyond. All operators certified by Ecotourism Australia are featured on the Green Travel Guide, allowing travellers to find over 2,000 certified and sustainable experiences across Australia.  

Hall of Fame 2025 

• Adrenalin Snorkel and Dive  

• Baird Bay Experience 

• Big Cat Green Island Reef Cruises 

• Calypso Reef Cruises 

• Cooinda Lodge Kakadu 

• JPT Tours 

• Kangaroo Island Marine Adventures 

• Moonlight Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park 

• OzSail Adventures 

• Passions of Paradise 

• Sunlover Reef Cruises  

Green Travel Leaders 2025   

• Boat Club Adventure Cruises 

• Cobbold Gorge Tours 

• Cumberland Charter Yachts 

• Dolphin Swim Australia 

• Local Eyes Sydney 

• Minjerribah Camping 

• Skytrek Willow Springs Station 

• South West Eco Discoveries 

• Sugarbag Safaris 

• Surf N’ Dirt Adventure Tours Margaret River 

• Rottnest Island Authority  

• Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk 

• Walk into Luxury