Tourism bronze for Ballarat

BALLARAT has been awarded third place at this year’s Victorian Tourism Industry Council Top Tourism Town Awards behind first-place Bendigo and second-place Warrnambool.

This is the fourth time Ballarat has been a finalist, taking out first place in the inaugural awards in 2021 and again in 2023.

“It takes a truly collaborative ground up approach to develop a thriving destination and this award recognises our region’s commitment to this,” said Tourism Midwest Victoria Chair, John Pandazopoulos.

“It is a celebration of not only the excellent visitor experiences on offer across the region, but the dedication of our tourism operators, local businesses and community in making Ballarat and its beautiful surrounds the best they can be.

“Every single person who makes up our visitor economy should be proud of this achievement and take it as a reminder we’re making great strides towards establishing the region as a world-class destination that inspires visitors to stay longer, spend more and love this region as much as we do.”

The awards are an initiative of the VTIC with winners announced at an awards ceremony in the Macedon Ranges last month.

The winners were decided by a judging panel and a public online vote which had more than 19,000 responses. “Since the inception of this award, Ballarat has been recognised as one of the top destinations for people to visit, of course we all know why, but it is great to share Ballarat with the country,” said City of Ballarat mayor Cr Des Hudson.

“We love to share our city, and all it’s amazing experiences with everyone that comes to visit and this award is testament to how great Ballarat’s offering is to all visitors, whether they are interested in food, unique experiences, nature or arts and culture, Ballarat has something for everyone.”

Daylesford won gold in the top small tourism town category, and top tiny tourism town was awarded to Timboon.