The Bundaberg Region has been named a finalist in Queensland’s Top Tourism Town Awards and, with voting now open, it’s up to the public to help it secure the win.
The region’s visitor attractions – from its accessible reef, stunning beaches, mouth-watering food and experiences to last a lifetime – saw it named one of seven finalists in the 2023 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards population over 5000 category.
Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the annual awards recognise outstanding regional destinations, honouring communities that demonstrate a commitment to visitor excellence.
After an extensive judging process by a panel of tourism experts, QTIC CEO Brett Fraser said it was now up to the public to help decide the winners.
“From the list of 17 wonderfully diverse finalists, we are calling on the public to celebrate their best-loved destinations by voting for who they think should be crowned a Queensland Top Tourism Town,” Mr Fraser said.
“Each finalist is a local treasure.
“It is not only homegrown attractions that drive guests to a destination. It is a combined effort from local communities and tourism operators that help holidaymakers feel welcome.
“The awards shine a light on these communities and celebrate their dedication to visitor excellence.
“Congratulations to all the remarkable finalists, who have demonstrated that you do not need to travel far in Queensland to enjoy an incredible experience.”
Mayor Jack Dempsey called on the community to show its support by voting for the Bundaberg Region as a Top Tourism Town.
“We are so excited to be showcasing the best attributes of the Bundaberg Region to the rest of the state and sharing what we locals already know – that we’re a Top Tourism Town,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The Bundaberg Region has a diverse range of attractions and, through a commitment to sustainability, recently received ECO Destination Certification.
“For the many residents who call this slice of paradise home or for the countless numbers of visitors who have enjoyed the area, make sure you place your vote and help the Bundaberg Region be named a 2023 Queensland Top Tourism Town.”
Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid said she was proud to see the Bundaberg Region once again named a finalist in the awards.
“As a community, we have embraced tourism for many year and the enormous jump in visitor numbers since COVID and the accolades like this are testament to the passion and commitment of all of the tourism and hospitality businesses who are delivering incredible visitor experiences every day,” Ms Reid said.
“Tourism is everybody’s business – the visitor economy is a major contributor to our community – and we need everyone to get behind this nomination by voting and sharing with friends, family, customers and contacts.”
There are four Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards categories, with voters invited to nominate their top three destinations:
- Top Tourism Town Award – those with a population over 5,000
- Top Small Tourism Town Award – those with a population between 1,500 – 5,000
- Top Tiny Tourism Town Award – those with a population below 1,500
Every voter goes in the draw to win a three-night stay at the 5-Star RACV Noosa Resort in a luxurious three-bedroom villa.
Tourism Minister Stirling Hinchliffe said Queenslanders continued to lead the discovery of world-class visitor experiences in our own backyard.
“This is a wonderful opportunity for Queenslanders to reward their favourite regional Tourism Towns for unforgettable visitor experiences,” Mr Hinchliffe said.
“From tourism and accommodation operators to cafes, restaurants and the local supermarket, being a Top Tourism Town is all about a united community commitment to excellence.”
With voting now open and closing 24 May, Queenslanders have two weeks to vote for their favourite holiday gems through the QTIC website at qtic.com.au/top-tourism-award/
State winners will go on to represent Queensland at the national awards held later in the year, where they have the chance to be crowned one of Australia’s Top Tourism Towns.
Queensland’s three Top Tourism Towns will be announced in June at an awards ceremony held in Brisbane.
The Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards are made possible through the generosity of sponsors, in particular Racing Queensland.
QUEENSLAND TOP TOURISM TOWN AWARDS FINALISTS
Top Tourism Town Award (population over 5,000) finalists:
Bowen
Bundaberg
Caloundra
Redcliffe
Rockhampton
Tamborine Mountain
Townsville
Top Small Tourism Town Award (population between 1,500 – 5,000) finalists:
Airlie Beach
Ingham
Top Tiny Tourism Town Award (population below 1,500) finalists:
Hughenden
Julia Creek
Linville
Quilpie
Richmond
Rubyvale
Toogoolawah
Winton
Other news:
Bundaberg, Airlie Beach and Toogoolawah.
I consider Bundaberg as an awesome city, you have the convenience of all diversity from FRESH fruits, vegetables, nuts, seafood at its finest, cafes, the most delicious coffee outlets, restaurants, beautiful alfresco dining at its best, convenient fast food outlets, glamping has become a very popular part of our Tourism, Farm stays, craft markets, locally grown fresh produce for the ever popular Sunday markets. Tourism is a specialty for the Bundaberg region with beautiful beaches, our seasonal Turtles are a huge attraction, Children are very well catered for with all different activities, also our Island destinations are an eye opener with the over night stays on board the Catamaran are to die for, the ever popular Bundy Rum and Ginger Beer Factory, guided tours are available for everyone to take advantage of and also taste testing of all the products, Over all Bundaberg is a beautiful and popular destination for local and international visitors.
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