Unshackled – Hobart Penitentiary won gold for Cultural Tourism at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards. This Award qualifies the Hobart Penitentiary for the National Tourism Awards.
Unshackled – Hobart Penitentiary won gold for Cultural Tourism at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards, Wrest Point, in November 2024. This category recognises tourism businesses that foster a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history, heritage and/or the arts.
The Awards are designed to encourage and recognise innovation, excellence, quality and sustainability in tourism, while providing a benchmark for industry best practice. This win at the Tasmanian Tourism Awards qualifies Unshackled – Hobart Penitentiary for the National Tourism Awards to be held in Adelaide in March 2025.
The judge’s citation read: ‘National Trust (Australia) Tasmania (NTT) is dedicated to preserving the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage. Among its treasures is the Hobart Penitentiary, an iconic convict site dating back to the early 1830s. Designed by John Lee Archer, this historic complex served as a key administrative hub for Tasmania’s convict system. Today, it offers visitors a unique glimpse into Australia’s penal history through guided tours and interactive exhibits, contributing significantly to Tasmanian tourism and heritage education. With access to convict records at your fingertips the site offers a truly unique visitor experience.’
The Cultural Tourism Award was sponsored by MONA – Museum of Old and New Art.
Image: National Trust Tasmania Board and staff accept the Tasmanian Tourism Award for Cultural Tourism. L-R Jo Bird, Jude Franks (with framed certificate), Scott Carlin, Kerry Houston, Catherine Walker (NTT Chair), Prof Hamish Maxwell-Stewart, Harriett England.
