City up for top award

BALLARAT has been announced as a Victoria’s Top Tourism Town awards finalist.

Ballarat is against Echuca, Mildura, Shepparton, Werribee and Warrnambool for the award.

This is the fourth time Ballarat has been a finalist and in 2021 and 2023, the city took the top prize.

“We have demonstrated twice already that we have what it takes to win this award, and this year is no different,” said John Pandazopoulos, Tourism Midwest Victoria chair.

“Being announced as a finalist recognises those who have made a commitment to growing tourism in our region.

“It’s a shout out to the attractions, accommodation providers, and the host of cafes, restaurants, bars, breweries and distilleries across Ballarat and Midwest Victoria that consistently deliver exceptional experiences that set us apart from other regional destinations in Victoria.”

The awards are an initiative of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council and aim to recognise regional towns which are committed to tourism.

Seventeen finalists were named over three categories: top tourism town, top small tourism town and top tiny tourism town.

City of Ballarat mayor Cr Des Hudson said becoming a finalist recognises what Ballarat has to offer.

“There is so much to do in Ballarat for all and being so close to Melbourne we are the ideal short-stay destination for families, foodies, nature-seekers and art lovers,” he said.

“Tourists are vital to our local economy, and our locals are important to bringing them here, with visiting friends and families making up almost 40 per cent of our region’s overnight tourist numbers.

“There are so many amazing regional destinations across Australia to visit, but Ballarat has something for everyone, with easy proximity to Melbourne.”

The public can vote for their favourite town until Monday 24 June on the Victoria Tourism Industry Council website and the winner will be announced in July.