{"id":268000,"date":"2025-10-03T10:54:22","date_gmt":"2025-10-03T08:54:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/?p=268000"},"modified":"2025-10-03T10:57:04","modified_gmt":"2025-10-03T08:57:04","slug":"eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/","title":{"rendered":"Eastern Cape tourism stars shine bright at inaugural awards hosted in JBay"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p><strong>JEFFREYS BAY<\/strong> &#8211; The Eastern Cape&#8217;s tourism stars were celebrated in style at the inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards, held at Mentors Country Estate on 27 September 2025.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268002\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701571_30495\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701571_30495\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;A women showcasing her award.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A women showcasing her award.\" class=\"wp-image-268002\" style=\"width:462px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701571_30495.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Hosted in partnership with Kouga Local Municipality as the proud naming partner, the event marked a historic milestone in recognising and showcasing the province&#8217;s finest tourism offerings.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The celebration brought together businesses, industry leaders, and community organisations, creating a powerful platform for collaboration, innovation, and investment. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>From luxury hotels to cultural gems, from adventure operators to future leaders in tourism, the awards highlighted the extraordinary diversity and excellence that position the Eastern Cape as a premier tourism destination.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"268003\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701578_30540\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,1800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701578_30540\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540-683x1024.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268003\" style=\"width:355px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701578_30540.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>A night of celebration and reflection<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Opening the evening, Kouga Executive Deputy Mayor, Timothy Jantjes, set the tone for the celebration by highlighting the importance of the inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;We are not only celebrating excellence in tourism but also writing history together, right here in our beautiful province,&#8221; Jantjes said. &#8220;This is a moment that belongs to all of us \u2013 whether you are an influencer, a business owner, an established tourism enterprise, or a community organisation. Each of you play a vital role in weaving the story of the Eastern Cape, a story that is rich, diverse, and undeniably inspiring.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Reflecting on the province&#8217;s natural and cultural treasures, he added: &#8220;Our province is extraordinary \u2013 from the rolling mountains to pristine coastlines, from our game reserves to our historic towns and villages. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268004\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701583_30508\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701583_30508\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268004\" style=\"width:453px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701583_30508.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>But what truly sets the Eastern Cape apart is our people. The warmth, authenticity, and creativity of our communities turn every visit into a lasting memory. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Tourism is about more than experiences; it is about the jobs created, the businesses supported, and the pride that fills every community welcoming visitors to share in what we have to offer.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268006\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701586_30514\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701586_30514\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268006\" style=\"width:564px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701586_30514.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Elevating the Eastern Cape<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Turning to the broader impact of tourism, he emphasised its role as a driver of growth. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;Beyond the laughter and the adventures lies a serious truth: tourism is an engine for growth in our province. It is a sector that connects rural and urban, heritage and modernity, small businesses and global travellers. It is an industry that has shown resilience in the face of challenges and one that continues to innovate with eco-tourism, cultural tourism, township tourism, and sustainable tourism leading the way.&#8221; \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"268007\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701591_30646\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,1800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701591_30646\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;A man showcasing his award.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646-683x1024.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man showcasing his award.\" class=\"wp-image-268007\" style=\"width:348px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701591_30646.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>He concluded by commending the awards&#8217; role in elevating the province: &#8220;The Eastern Cape is home to world-class attractions, and it was an honour to shine a spotlight on the incredible people and businesses driving our tourism success. This event was not only about recognising excellence, but also about positioning the Eastern Cape as a leading destination for both business and leisure tourism. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;The momentum generated here will continue to boost investment, increase visitor numbers, and ensure that our tourism industry thrives long into the future.&#8221;\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"268008\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701598_30633\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,1800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701598_30633\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;A man showcasing his award.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633-683x1024.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man showcasing his award.\" class=\"wp-image-268008\" style=\"width:455px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701598_30633.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Award highlights<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Categories were carefully curated to reflect the vibrancy of the industry, with winners announced across accommodation, attractions, culinary experiences, cultural heritage, sustainability and innovation. Special recognition was also given to the Future Leaders in Tourism \u2013 young professionals under 35 shaping the industry&#8217;s future.\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268009\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701610_30351\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701610_30351\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268009\" style=\"width:624px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701610_30351.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>The winners are:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Best Hotel &amp; Resort: Courtyard Hotel, Gqeberha\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Best Guesthouse and B&amp;B: The Sands @ St Francis Bay\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Best Backpacker \/ Self-Catering: Tube &amp; Axe Backpackers &amp; Lodge\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Best Lodge Stay: Kuzuko Lodge\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Digital Tourism Influencer of the Year: The Real Travel Guy\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Sustainable Tourism Award: Stormsriver Adventures\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Outstanding Culinary Experience &amp; Restaurants: Awehness Travel\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Ultimate Adventure Attraction: Face Adrenalin Bloukrans Bungy\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Exceptional Safari &amp; Game Park Experience: Pumba Private Game Reserve\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Tour Operator of the Year: Awehness Travel\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Unique Agri-Tourism Experience: Pabala Private Nature Reserve\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Iconic Cultural &amp; Heritage Experience: Tsitsikamma Indigenous Tours\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Premier Conference &amp; Events Venue: The Boardwalk International Convention Centre\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Events &amp; Conference Organiser of the Year: Boast Events\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u2022 Future Leaders in Tourism: Zibonele Mdletshe \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268010\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701538_30310\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701538_30310\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Three people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Three people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268010\" style=\"width:574px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701538_30310.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Looking ahead<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The resounding success of the first-ever Eastern Cape Tourism Awards has cemented its place on the provincial tourism calendar. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Organisers have already begun preparations to make the 2026 edition even bigger, drawing more businesses, investors and visitors to experience all that the province has to offer. \n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>&#8220;The Eastern Cape Tourism Awards is more than just an awards ceremony \u2013 it is a movement to celebrate, support, and grow tourism in our province,&#8221; Jantjes added.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"268015\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701564_30465\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,1800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701564_30465\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465-683x1024.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268015\" style=\"width:379px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701564_30465.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" data-attachment-id=\"268014\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701557_30429\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,1800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701557_30429\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;A man showcasing his award.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429-683x1024.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"A man showcasing his award.\" class=\"wp-image-268014\" style=\"width:441px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701557_30429.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268013\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701555_30413\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701555_30413\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;A group of people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"A group of people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268013\" style=\"width:532px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701555_30413.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268012\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701546_30416\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701546_30416\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Three people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Three people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268012\" style=\"width:564px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701546_30416.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\"> <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" data-attachment-id=\"268011\" data-permalink=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/ra701542_30366\/\" data-orig-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366.jpg\" data-orig-size=\"1200,800\" data-comments-opened=\"1\" data-image-meta=\"{&quot;aperture&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;credit&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;camera&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;caption&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;created_timestamp&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;copyright&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;focal_length&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;iso&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;shutter_speed&quot;:&quot;0&quot;,&quot;title&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;orientation&quot;:&quot;0&quot;}\" data-image-title=\"RA701542_30366\" data-image-description=\"&lt;p&gt;Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.&lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-image-caption=\"&lt;p&gt;Eastern Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. &lt;\/p&gt;\n\" data-large-file=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366-1024x683.jpg\" src=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Two people standing alongside each other showcasing their awards.\" class=\"wp-image-268011\" style=\"width:592px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/RA701542_30366.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Eastern Cape&#8217;s tourism stars celebrated at inaugural Eastern Cape Tourism Awards, held at Mentors Country Estate on 27 September 2025.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":20,"featured_media":268001,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_yoast_wpseo_linkdex":"80","_yoast_wpseo_content_score":"30","_yoast_wpseo_inclusive_language_score":"90","_yoast_wpseo_is_cornerstone":"","_yoast_wpseo_canonical":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_opengraph-image-id":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-title":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-description":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image":"","_yoast_wpseo_twitter-image-id":"","newspack_ads_suppress_ads":false,"newspack_sponsor_sponsorship_scope":"","newspack_sponsor_native_byline_display":"inherit","newspack_sponsor_native_category_display":"inherit","newspack_sponsor_underwriter_style":"inherit","newspack_sponsor_underwriter_placement":"inherit","_crsspst_to_novanewscoza":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozabloemnewsexpress":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozacityvision":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozadistrictmailhelderberg":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaeikestadnuus":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozahermanustimes":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozakomani-karoo":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozamthathaexpress":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozanoordkaapbulletin":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozapaarlpost":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozapeexpress":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozapeoplespost":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaswartlandgazette":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozatygerburger":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaudexpress":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozavistanews":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozavrystaatkroon":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaweskusnuus":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaweslander":false,"_crsspst_to_novanewscozaworcesterstandard":false,"_EventAllDay":"","_EventTimezone":"","_EventStartDate":"","_EventEndDate":"","_EventStartDateUTC":"","_EventEndDateUTC":"","_EventShowMap":"","_EventShowMapLink":"","_EventURL":"","_EventCost":"","_EventCostDescription":"","_EventCurrencySymbol":"","_EventCurrencyCode":"","_EventCurrencyPosition":"","_EventDateTimeSeparator":"","_EventTimeRangeSeparator":"","_EventOrganizerID":"","_EventVenueID":"","_OrganizerEmail":"","_OrganizerPhone":"","_OrganizerWebsite":"","_VenueAddress":"","_VenueCity":"","_VenueCountry":"","_VenueProvince":"","_VenueState":"","_VenueZip":"","_VenuePhone":"","_VenueURL":"","_VenueStateProvince":"","_VenueLat":"","_VenueLng":"","_VenueShowMap":"","_VenueShowMapLink":"","_application":"","_batch_id":"","_company_name":"","_company_tagline":"","_company_twitter":"","_company_video":"","_company_website":"","_custom_id":"","_EventDuration":"","_EventOrigin":"","_EventTimezoneAbbr":"","_featured":"","_filled":"","_job_expires":"","_job_location":"","_media_credit":"","_media_credit_url":"","_menu_item_menu_item_parent":"","_menu_item_object":"","_menu_item_object_id":"","_menu_item_target":"","_menu_item_type":"","_menu_item_url":"","_menu_item_xfn":"","_navis_media_can_distribute":"","_navis_media_credit_org":"","_OrganizerOrigin":"","_provider":"","_pum_built_in":"","_pum_default_theme":"","_pum_form_conversion_count":"","_remote_id":"","_remote_name":"","_remote_position":"","_report_frequency":"","_report_reference_dates":"","_send_attempts":"","_site_id":"","_sitemap_exclude":"","_sitemap_frequency":"","_sitemap_priority":"","_source_url":"","_subscription_period":"","_subscription_period_interval":"","_subscription_price":"","_tec_slr_enabled":"","_tec_slr_layout":"","_template_type":"","_ticket_end_date":"","_ticket_start_date":"","_tribe_aggregator_allow_multiple_organizers":"","_tribe_aggregator_content_type":"","_tribe_aggregator_file":"","_tribe_aggregator_finalized":"","_tribe_aggregator_hash":"","_tribe_aggregator_import_id":"","_tribe_aggregator_import_name":"","_tribe_aggregator_interactive":"","_tribe_aggregator_origin":"","_tribe_aggregator_post_status":"","_tribe_aggregator_preview":"","_tribe_aggregator_source_name":"","_tribe_aggregator_type":"","_tribe_default_ticket_provider":"","_tribe_hide_attendees_list":"","_tribe_rsvp_for_event":"","_tribe_ticket_capacity":"","_tribe_ticket_header":"","_tribe_ticket_show_description":"","_tribe_ticket_show_not_going":"","_tribe_ticket_version":"","_type":"","_VenueOrigin":"","_wp_attachment_context":"","_wp_attachment_image_alt":"","_wp_font_face_file":"","_wp_old_date":"2025-10-02","_yoast_wpseo_estimated-reading-time-minutes":"7","_yoast_wpseo_focuskeywords":"","_yoast_wpseo_focuskw_text_input":"","_yoast_wpseo_keywordsynonyms":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_block-catalog":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_category":"1","_yoast_wpseo_primary_job_listing_type":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_nova_retailer":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_publication":"","_yoast_wpseo_primary_tribe_events_cat":"","_yoast_wpseo_videositemap-duration":"","_yoast_wpseo_videositemap-rating":"","_menu_item_classes":[],"_tribe_modified_fields":[],"_wp_attachment_backup_sizes":[],"_wp_suggested_privacy_policy_content"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Cape Tourism Awards 27 September 2025. PHOTO: SUPPLIED","article_media_icon":"1","article_template":"news","author_byline":"","background_color":"","block_editor":"1","byline":"","cmplz_hide_cookiebanner":"","competition_end_date":"","contact_advertise_email":"","contact_advertise_phone":"","contact_editorial_email":"","contact_general_email":"","contact_general_phone":"","contact_office_hours":"","contact_physical_address":"","enabled":"","featured_image_custom_caption":"","featured_video_url":"","fields":"","font_body":"","font_header":"","frequency":"","headline":"Eastern Cape tourism stars shine bright at inaugural 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This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.8 (Yoast SEO v27.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Eastern Cape tourism stars shine bright at inaugural awards hosted in JBay | Kouga Express<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Celebrate the inaugural Eastern Cape tourism awards, showcasing the province&#039;s best in tourism excellence and diversity.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/kougaexpress\/eastern-cape-tourism-stars-shine-bright-at-inaugural-awards\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Eastern Cape tourism stars shine bright at inaugural awards hosted in JBay\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Celebrate the inaugural Eastern Cape tourism 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