Two figures who have spent decades building Australia’s sustainable tourism credentials, Lady Elliot Island operator Peter Gash OAM and former Ecotourism Australia Chair Dr Claire Ellis, have been recognised with Lifetime Achievement Awards.
The awards were presented at the 2026 Global Sustainable Tourism Summit on the Gold Coast, acknowledging distinguished service and leadership in championing sustainability and promoting Australia as a destination for responsible and nature-based tourism.
Both names sit behind products and credentials that travel advisors already sell, from reef-based experiences to the ECO Certification mark clients increasingly look for.
Gash has spent more than four decades transforming Lady Elliot Island into one of Australia’s most recognised ecotourism destinations.
Under his leadership, the island has become known for environmental restoration, renewable energy innovation, reef conservation and sustainable visitor experiences, a drawcard for clients seeking a Great Barrier Reef stay with conservation at its core.
Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said: “Peter’s vision and commitment have inspired operators across Australia and around the world.”
“He has shown that environmental conservation and tourism success can go hand in hand and has become one of Australia’s most respected ambassadors for sustainable tourism and reef stewardship.”
Ellis was also recognised for her leadership and service to the organisation and the broader tourism sector after spending more than a decade on the Ecotourism Australia Board, including six years as Chair.
A tourism strategist and consultant, she has worked across destination development and sustainable tourism planning around the country.
“Claire’s leadership has had a lasting impact on both Ecotourism Australia and the wider tourism industry,” Keenan said.
“Her strategic vision, commitment to good governance and passion for sustainable tourism helped strengthen the organisation and position it for the future. She has been a tireless advocate for tourism that protects place, supports communities and delivers long-term value.”
Why it matters for the travel trade
Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Certification was the world’s first national ecotourism certification program, joined in 2022 by Sustainable Tourism Certification for non-nature-based businesses.
Around 2,500 accommodation properties, tours and attractions now carry Ecotourism Australia certification, helping advisors match clients to genuinely sustainable product.
Keenan said the awards reflected the importance of recognising those who have helped shape the future of Australian tourism.
“At a time when sustainability has never been more important, it is fitting that we acknowledge those whose leadership, courage and commitment have helped pave the way for future generations.”
KARRYON UNPACKS: Behind every ECO Certification logo are the people who built the framework. As travellers ask harder questions about a property’s green claims, knowing the names and the certification behind them turns sustainability from a buzzword into a sell.
