Vote for Ballina to win gold at NSW Top Tourism Town Awards

BALLINA will be out to claim top spot in the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards, with the public urged to vote as part of the competition.

Voting is now open with the region coming off a silver and bronze medal on previous entries.

Ballina has been recognised for its accessibility, year-round appeal and growing hospitality scene.

The shire has also been acknowledged for innovation and growth in its business community.

Ballina is in the category for towns with a population over 5000 and will need to topple Kiama which has won it for the last two years.

Discover Ballina, which operates the visitor information centre, promotes the region’s coastline, rainforests, waterfalls and local businesses.

Ballina Shire Council team leader Alanah Ward said the awards reflected the efforts of the whole community.

“These awards recognise destinations that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and contribute strongly to their local economies,” she said.

“They’re also a valuable opportunity to showcase the Ballina Coast and Hinterland on a broader stage and reinforce the strength of our collective tourism offering.”

Others towns entered this year include Coffs Harbour, Forbes, Moree, Orange, Shellharbour and Wollongong.

Visitor reviews also contribute to the overall result.

Voting is open to the public until midnight on Sunday, 3 May.

To vote, visit nswtourismassoc.kartra.com/survey/anmWRKOLCr9 or search Discover Ballina on Facebook.

The awards are hosted by the NSW Tourism Association and the NRMA.