WELCOME TO OUR APRIL CERTIFIED OPERATORS
It takes dedication and passion to pave the way for a sustainable future. By beginning their ECO Certification journey, tourism operators can ensure they are putting in place effective and ethical sustainability practices for the longevity of their operation and the conservation of the natural environment. Here are the tourism operators who completed their criteria and achieved certification in April 2022!
The Oceania Project (Badtjala Country/Hervey Bay, QLD)
(Photo credit: The Oceania Project)
Founded in 1988 to support the conservation of whales, dolphins and the ocean environment, The Oceania Project decided to pursue ECO Certification achieving ECO certified Ecotourism this month. They are a scientific and educational not for profit with a dominant focus on research and conservation of Australia’s Eastern Coast marine environment. The long-term study of the behaviour and ecology of Humpback Whales in Hervey Bay has been the major work of The Oceania Project and was, and still is, made possible through collaboration with individuals participating in the organisation’s internship program. To date, 1,500 interns have joined the Annual Whale Research Expeditions in Hervey Bay, which is open to all members of the public with no prior experience required. Anyone with an interest in marine life and/or sustainability is welcome aboard their Whale Research Expeditions to contribute to crucial research and conservation.
Discover more about their experiences and research here.
Southern Secrets (Various, NSW and VIC)
(Photo credit: Southern Secrets)
The latest addition to the Ecotourism Australia community is Southern Secrets, having achieved Nature Tourism Certification this month. Southern Secrets specialise in boutique tour experiences around Australia, particularly in New South Wales and Victoria, in the interest areas such as Indigenous tourism, food and wine, city sights and nature and wildlife.
Environmental protection is a major part of Southern Secrets’ ethos, and the business is committed to a minimal impact ‘Zero Footprint’ Policy, inspired by Aboriginal connection to Country. The tour group aims to be carbon neutral by reducing unnecessary use of electricity and paper and conducting their tours on foot, on public transport or in GreenFleet registered vehicles. Furthermore, Southern Secrets only use local suppliers for their operations and all consumables are carefully selected to ensure minimal environmental impact. Visitor education forms a significant part of their tours and Southern Secrets aims to raise awareness of environmentally friendly practices among all participants.
See their range of available tours here.
Congratulations to our members who have grown their suite of certifications!
- Calypso Reef Cruises (Kuku-Yalanji Country/Port Douglas) - Climate Action Business certified
- Experience Daintree (Kuku-Yalanji Country/Port Douglas) - Climate Action Business certified
Cover image: Southern Secrets