The local business is amongst three from Central NSW that are finalists in the 2006 NSW Tourism Awards, the Minister for Tourism and Sport and Recreation, Sandra Nori announced this week.

The 2006 NSW Tourism Awards are being managed in partnership between Tourism NSW and the Tourism Industry Council NSW, with the judging process fully co-ordinated by the Council.

"The standard of entries this year was extremely high, making the judges' task very difficult," Ms Nori said.

"This is a great result for Central NSW and demonstrates the high standard in the local tourism industry. I hop it will encourage more local tourism businesses to enter the Awards next year," she said.

The winners will be announced at the NSW Tourism Awards presentation and dinner on Thursday, November 16 at Star City Hotel and Casino in Sydney.

"These Awards are an important recognition of the hard work that local businesses put into the tourism industry, attracting vital investment and jobs for regional areas," she said.

" I would like to extend an invitation to the tourism industry to attend the Awards night, which is the major industry event of the year," Ms Nori said

There are 31 categories in the NSW Tourism Awards including attractions, festivals and events, ecotourism, tour and transport operators, marketing, a range of accommodation style, contributions from individuals and the young achiever award.

Finalist were decided by judges nominated by Regional Tourism Organisation, key industry associations and government agencies. Tickets for the NSW Tourism Awards presentation and dinner are on sale now. To book seats or a table call Showbiz on (02) 8289 8636.