ZOO NEWS

Crikey! Australia Zoo was named Major Tourist Attraction for 2009 at the Queensland Tourism Awards held in Brisbane, and now joins the Hall of Fame after receiving the recognition for the third year in a row.

The Queensland Tourism Awards acknowledge and reward businesses in Queensland's tourism industry for their innovation, achievements and ongoing hard work. Queensland's major tourist attraction, Australia Zoo, has set the standard for being a leading zoological facility, and a must see hot spot for locals and tourists alike.

Terri Irwin, who was notified of the win with Bindi and Robert at the Nickelodeon Kids' Choice Awards, said she was ecstatic about the honour.

"We are so proud to be recognised as a tourism icon in both Queensland and Australia, being honoured also at the Australian Tourism Awards earlier this year," said Terri.

Australia Zoo's global vision for conservation continues to contribute significantly to Queensland and Australia's tourism industry and reputation internationally.

"We now want to take the award-winning Australia Zoo experience to the world, with plans for an exciting new attraction in Las Vegas."

Australia Zoo Director, Wes Mannion said he was honoured to accept the award, which is the result of the Zoo offering the ultimate day out, continuously contributing to conservation projects and exhibiting some of the world's most awesome wildlife.

"Steve was the best teacher and the best educator - we're all still following his legacy," said Wes.

"Australia is the best country in the world, and people come to Australia to see our wildlife, not to eat it."

Wes is also excited about continuing plans for development, including opportunities to take the conservation message global.

"Watch this space - we are going to continue to take conservation to the world!"

Australia Zoo will now progress to the Australian Tourism Awards, in which the iconic tourist destination took out the award for Major Tourist Attraction for 2008.