BY the end of July, Ballarat could be named the state\u2019s best town to take a trip to.<\/p>\n
The city is one of 17 finalist locations in three categories as part of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council\u2019s TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards.<\/p>\n
Ballarat Regional Tourism chair Paul Martino said the nomination highlights the hard work of local people working in the visitor and hospitality sectors.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe visitor economy is an intrinsic part of the vibrancy of our region,\u201d he said. \u201cIt is our people who make a visit to Ballarat different from anywhere else.<\/p>\n
\u201cOur warming hospitality, our passionate storytelling and plethora of one-of-a-kind immersive experiences leave visitors with a new impression of Ballarat that has them wanting to return time and time again.\u201d<\/p>\n
VTIC chief executive Felicia Mariani said the awards are a celebration of Victoria\u2019s diverse, quality locations and visitor experiences.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe last few years have shown many of us that we don\u2019t need to leave Victoria for a great getaway,\u201d she said. \u201cIt\u2019s renewed our love for our stunning backyard.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re calling on every Victorian to cast their vote and show their support for our domestic tourism industry.\u201d<\/p>\n
With the awards decided on popular vote, Mr Martino urged Ballarat residents to get behind their hometown.<\/p>\n
\u201cA vote for Ballarat is a vote for your local barista, for your go-to restaurant and your favourite makers and producers,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
Ballarat is up against other nominees in the Top Tourism Towns category including Bendigo, Echuca, Frankston, Lakes Entrance, Mildura, Warrnambool, and Werribee.<\/p>\n
Visit vtic.com.au\/toptourismtown to vote before Thursday 22 June and prizes for taking part are being offered.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
BY the end of July, Ballarat could be named the state\u2019s best town to take a trip to. The city is one of 17 finalist locations in three categories as part of the Victoria Tourism Industry Council\u2019s TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards. Ballarat Regional Tourism chair Paul Martino said the nomination highlights the hard […]<\/p>\n