Ecotourism certification for Firescreek Winery

Enjoying the garden at Firescreek Botanical Winery Photo: Reme Brand

Firescreek Botanical Winery at Holgate has become Australia’s first eco-certified winery experience.

The recognition by Ecotourism Australia underscores Firescreek Botanical Winery’s commitment to globally recognised best-practice standards and highlights its leadership in eco and sustainable tourism.

Being based in a certified eco destination, the achievement illustrates a region-wide effort to meet the increasing expectation of best-practice sustainable tourism experiences.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this ecotourism certification,” winery owner Nadia O’Connell said.

“This achievement reflects our unwavering commitment to sustainability and our passion for protecting the environment.

“We believe that by practising sustainable agriculture and following permaculture principles, we can create a positive impact on our community and inspire others to do the same.”

Ecotourism Australia CEO Elissa Keenan said achieving global standard certification was testament to the winery’s dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

“This milestone not only highlights the national leadership as the first eco-certified winery in Australia but also reinforces the Central Coast’s status as a committed eco-certified destination,” she said.

Ecotourism certification assesses businesses, through third party auditing, against Ecotourism Australia’s internationally recognised ecotourism standard across the four pillars of sustainability: environmental, cultural and socio-economic impacts, and sustainable business operations.

Firescreek Botanical Winery practises organic farming, avoiding synthetic chemicals and pesticides to maintain a healthy ecosystem.

Integrating permaculture principles, the winery creates a resilient agricultural system that enhances soil fertility, conserves water and supports local wildlife.

Guided tours at the winery educate visitors about sustainable farming and organic agriculture, reflecting the winery’s dedication to eco-conscious practices.

The achievement was supported by Destination Central Coast’s award-winning Eco Advocate industry incentive program, delivered in partnership with Ecotourism Australia to drive understanding of sustainable tourism principles across the entire region’s visitor economy.