Congratulations to all nominees in the 2026 Tassie Tour Guide Award.

We are delighted to announce this year's finalists, recognising their outstanding contribution to delivering exceptional visitor experiences across Tasmania.

The winner of the 2026 Tassie Tour Guide Award will be announced at an Awards Ceremony in Hobart on Wednesday 8 July 2026.

Guillaume Barbeau, Lark Distillery

Guillaume Barbeau is a staple of the LARK hospitality team, bringing infectious energy to each and every tour that he hosts. Not only can he combine the passion and detailed product knowledge to win over legions of new fans to our special brand of Whisky, but he is always determined to provide the training opportunities to new team members that can deliver the same tours to the same level of exquisite quality.

Thomas Carney, Lark Distillery

With well over three years of tenure under his belt with the Lark Distillery, Thomas Carney has become a trusted wealth of knowledge for those who visit Tasmania and wish to venture into the ever-expanding world of Tasmanian Whisky.

His passion for both the craft and unique envrionment that shape this industry is rivalled only by the welcoming nature that he exhibits towards every guest that finds their way into the Lark Cellar Door.

Jesse Chippindall, Seahorse World

Jesse Chippindall is an integral part of the Seahorse World team. A career spanning 19 years, with various roles. Jesse has seen continual growth in his professional career and is now Seahorse World's senior Aquarium Manager and Principal Tour Guide. Jesse is dedicated to his role and is passionate for innovation, inclusivity and has the ability to make every tour educational, fun and memorable. Visitor experience is always at the forefront of everything he does, and this is reflected in the many positive reviews and testimonials from families, school groups and visitors.

Dr Lisa Gershwin, Glow Tours

Who doesn't love things that glow in the dark? Glow Tours offer an unforgettable way to experience nature. The aurora, marine bioluminescence, electric apricot- or bubblegum-glowing possums, brilliant green-glowing snails with little blue eyes, and owls flashing cherry-red as they lift their wings to fly. Glow Tours are led by Dr Lisa Gershwin, a neurospicy scientist, a pioneer in glow science in Tasmania. By using exploration and storytelling to inspire empathy for the natural world, Lisa aims to use the magic of nature’s glow as a pathway to sustainability.

Alicia Johns, Off The Leash Tours

Alicia Johns, better known as “Leash”, is the owner and operator of Off The Leash Tours in Hobart. Known for her outgoing personality and highly personalised approach, she creates private Tasmanian tour experiences that focus on connection, fun and memorable moments rather than scripted sightseeing. Combining local knowledge, wineries, scenic locations and her signature ‘car-a-oke’ experience, Leash has built a reputation for tours that feel more like exploring Tasmania with a local friend. As a solo female operator, she is passionate about showcasing Tasmania in a way that feels authentic, relaxed and genuinely unforgettable for every guest she hosts.

Carleeta Thomas, wukalina Walk

Carleeta Thomas has been guiding for wukalina walk since its inception in 2016. Born on Cape Barren Island Carleeta has become a world class guide, blending high level knowledge and understanding of Tasmanian Aboriginal History and a warmth that ensures guests get to experience the rich cultural emersion provided on the walk in a safe and respectful environment. A leader not only within the wukalina team but the Aboriginal community as a whole Carleeta is a shining light that continues to lead the way in many areas in particular Aboriginal Tourism in Tasmania.

Bill Roe, Tasmanian Walking Company

Bill Roe joined the Tasmanian Walking Company as a Trainee Guide on the Three Capes Track in November 2021. Guest feedback from Bill's very first training trip said he "was a star" and that Bill would be "a tremendous asset" to the Tasmanian Walking Company. This prediction has held so very true. In the almost 5 years he has guided, Bill has set the standard of what a guide should be. He has excellent guest focus and commitment to safety, fosters connection and curiosity, has a keen love of planet Earth and its inhabitants, and leads trips with kindness and integrity.

Mike Smith, Tasmanian Walking Company

Mike Smith joined the Tasmanian Walking Company as a Trainee Guide on the Three Capes Track in 2022. Since joining the team, Mike has become a highly valued and highly respected member of the guiding team, working consistently to foster true connection with guests on tour, and connection to the special and unique places he guides in. Mike’s care for his fellow guiding co-workers to support their wellbeing and development, and his care and consideration for guests, are demonstrated each time he heads out on track.