Vote for Ballina in the tourism awards

Lennox Head continues to draw visitors to Ballina Shire, with its coastline and relaxed lifestyle central to the region’s tourism appeal. Photo: Kathleen Banks.

Ballina has been nominated for the 2026 New South Wales Top Tourism Town Awards.

The statewide program run by the New South Wales Tourism Association recognises destinations that provide high-quality visitor experiences and demonstrate a commitment to the regional tourism industry.

Public voting for the awards opened this week and will remain available until Sunday 3 May.

Scan this QR code to vote for Ballina in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards.

Ballina Shire Council coordinator of destination and economy Alanah Ward said community support plays an important role in the awards process.

“Ballina has so much to be proud of, and this is a great opportunity to recognise the people, businesses and experiences that make our destination so special,” Ward said.

The official submission for the town focuses on the variety of attractions across the coastline and the hinterland.It includes references to the natural environment, outdoor activities, local hospitality businesses and the work of regional tourism operators.

The awards are designed to highlight the role the visitor economy plays in supporting local employment and business vitality in regional areas.

Ward said the awards provide a chance to showcase the district on a broader stage and highlight the strength of the local visitor economy.

Council is now encouraging residents and visitors to participate in the public vote to help the town secure the title.

Vote online through the New South Wales Tourism Association website.