More than 300 tourism operators and industry leaders gathered at Newcastle City Hall to celebrate the 2008 Hunter Regional Tourism awards for excellence.

Hunter Valley Gardens director and former Hunter Regional Tourism chairman David Mulham picked up a major award for outstanding contribution to tourism by an individual.

Mr Mulham headed the organisation for five consecutive years before stepping down last December to move back to Sydney.

The owner of Pokolbin's Peppers Guest House and Peppers Convent, Peter Harman, was appointed chairman in January.

Several first-time winners were announced last night, including Newcastle Airport for specialised tourism services, Port Stephens Parasailing for adventure tourism and the Bitter and Twisted International Boutique Beer Festival in the events category.

Organisation chief executive Sheridan Ferrier said the new award winners demonstrated growth in the region's tourism industry.

"It's fantastic to see the Hunter's tourism operators being rewarded and I'm particularly pleased for the individuals behind the businesses who work so hard to make it all happen," she said.

Outgoing Hunter Tourism Board director John Rydge was acknowledged for his outstanding contribution to regional tourism and his dedication to the Barrington Tops area.

Newcastle Tourism's Matthew Vanderwall was named young achiever.

Blackbutt Reserve overcame damage from the June long weekend storms last year to take out the award for ecotourism.

Lake Macquarie scooped the pool with Christina's Bed & Breakfast, Lake Macquarie Visitor Information Centre, Comfort Inn Lake Macquarie and Belmont 16ft Sailing Club picking up awards.