Albany Visitor Centre’s Kirstie Cooper and Hilton Garden Inn Albany’s Steve Millhouse finalists for awards

Two dedicated Albany professionals have been nominated as finalists for prestigious State awards recognising excellence in the tourism industry.

Kirstie Cooper from the Albany Visitor Centre has been named a finalist for the Sir David Brand young achiever medal, while the Hilton Garden Inn Albany’s hotel manager Steve Millhouse is shortlisted for the individual excellence by a tourism professional award.

Run by the Tourism Council WA, the 2025 Perth Airport WA Tourism Awards for Individual Excellence sees 33 finalists in the running for five titles, that also include the FACET Golden Guide Award, Individual Excellence in Aboriginal Tourism and Individual Excellence in Customer Service.

Ms Cooper said she was “humbled” to be recognised for the award, which celebrates people under the age of 30 making an impact in the tourism industry.

The 25-year-old’s tourism journey began when she was 16 and joined the visitor centre on a work placement.

A decade later, she serves as senior customer service officer and cruise co-ordinator, detailing the region’s gems to visiting tourists, booking tours, accommodation and tickets, managing the social media and acting as the point person for cruise ship passengers visiting the town.

“The passion I have for Albany is pretty strong,” she said.

“I’ve been here since I was 16, and I love Albany so much which is why I picked the visitor centre.

“I think the passion I have for promoting this place is something that’s just crazy.

“Everyone always says to me, ‘oh you just love Albany so much, you’re one person that I’ve seen that absolutely loves their job’.

“But yeah I hope the little things that I do just help shape tourism in the Great Southern and put Albany on the map.”

Ms Cooper will compete with six other young achievers for the top gong, while Mr Millhouse will run against another six for his title.

The winners will be announced on May 28 at the 2025 Perth Airport WA Tourism Conference hosted at the Esplanade Hotel in Fremantle.