Quest Newcastle and Linc Horton reaped the spoils at the Prosperity Advisers 2026 Hospitality & Tourism Awards this week.
The industry’s leading operators, events, venues and professionals enjoyed a moment to unwind while celebrating the sector’s success over the past 12 months at Ravella Newcastle on Monday 18 May.
It also provided an opportunity for businesses and individuals to acknowledge a vocation that continues to play a critical role in the city’s economic growth and identity.
Mr Horton, the Newcastle Airport CEO, took home Industry Leader of the Year while Quest Newcastle/Newcastle West secured three categories: Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year, Outstanding Accommodation Provider and Employer of the Year.
NTIG chair and CoastXP founder Dominic May said the strength of this year’s finalists and winners
reflected the momentum currently driving the region’s visitor economy.
“Newcastle and the wider Hunter have continued to evolve as a destination, with growing numbers, major investment in infrastructure and increasing national attention on the experiences our region offers,” he explained.
“The quality of this year’s submissions demonstrates just how ambitious, resilient and innovative our
hospitality and tourism businesses are.
“From accommodation providers and restaurants to festivals, tours and industry leaders, the winners represent the very best of a sector that continues to raise the bar.
“Newcastle’s visitor economy has enormous opportunities ahead of it.
“The expansion of Newcastle Airport, major city revitalisation projects and improved connectivity will continue to transform the region.”
Founder and CEO of naming rights sponsor Prosperity Advisers Group Allan McKeown said supporting the awards reflected the company’s long-term commitment to the success of the local visitor economy.
“Hospitality and tourism are major drivers of economic activity, employment and investment across Newcastle and the Hunter,” he added.
“Through our work with clients across the sector, we see first-hand the commitment, innovation and resilience required to succeed in this industry.
“Congratulations to all finalists and winners.
“Their achievements are a testament to the strength of our visitor economy.
“And, we remain deeply invested in supporting the continued growth and success of local hospitality and tourism businesses.”
Prosperity Advisers 2026 Newcastle Hospitality & Tourism Awards
- Industry Support Partner of the Year: EDL Consulting
- Inclusive Tourism & Hospitality Operator of the Year: Quest Newcastle
- Best New Visitor Economy Business: Newy Food Adventures
- Excellence in Sustainability: MOA & Co
- Best Tourism Experience: Newy Tour Co
- Best Event or Festival: Newcastle Pride Festival
- Culinary Excellence: Bistro Penny
- Outstanding Accommodation Provider: Quest Newcastle West
- Rising Star Award: Emily Box (Young Street Hotel)
- Customer Service Champion: Stewart Ford (Newcastle Cruise Ship Volunteers)
- Employer of the Year: Quest Newcastle/Newcastle West
- Industry Leader of the Year: Linc Horton (Newcastle Airport)
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- Stockland Green Hills launches new youth initiative
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