Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism has announced its inaugural Fleurieu Peninsula Service Star, Nick Nicmanis-Everingham.

The awards celebrate the heroes of hospitality – the staff and businesses who ensure visitors to the region feel welcomed, valued, and connected. 

Nick is a 23-year-old local legend who works at Aqua Blue Restaurant in Normanville. Born and raised in Yankalilla, he has a deep connection to his community and a passion for hospitality. 

 “For me, this is more than a job. It’s about giving people a place to pause, to feel cared for, and to leave with a smile,” he says.

His efforts have earned him the reward of a relaxing stay at Second Valley Lodge and a surfing lesson with Surf and Sun, two experiences donated by local tourism champions. 

As the business behind the winner, Aqua Blue Restaurant is also in the running for a feature broadcast segment on Hello SA, supported by Adelady.

The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Awards program provides an opportunity to showcase a commitment to excellence and set a new standard for visitor experiences. It aims to elevate the Fleurieu Peninsula and ensure visitors leave with indelible memories.

The program is supported by Tourism Australia which sees it as a perfect complement to their national We Are the Australian Tourism Industry campaign, celebrating the vital role exceptional tourism service plays in the country's recovery. 

Kristy Malapa, Tourism Australia’s Industry Relations Manager, says exceptional service is at the heart of every unforgettable tourism experience. 

“The Fleurieu Peninsula Service Stars program is an inspiring example of innovation and collaboration in action, helping to elevate Australia’s reputation as a world-class tourism destination while revitalising local economies and communities."

Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism launched the Service Stars program at a critical time for the region. Visitor spending declined by 30 per cent during the past winter, highlighting the need for initiatives that reinforce the value of exceptional service and the impact it can have on customer sentiment and repeat visitation.

“Nick embodies the welcoming hospitality, local knowledge, and authentic passion that make the Fleurieu Peninsula such an extraordinary destination,” says Merrin Ozols, Executive Officer of Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism. 

“He reminds us that tourism isn’t just about places—it’s about the people who make those places come alive.”

To find out more about the program and how to nominate a local service star, visit the Fleurieu Peninsula Tourism website.