Region claims silver tourism awards

BENDIGO and Heathcote won silver at the 2023 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards last week.

The placings were decided by the Victoria Tourism Council along with votes from the public.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said the awards reflected the high-quality tourism offerings in the region.

“I am absolutely delighted that people have found Bendigo and Heathcote to be such wonderful and memorable places to visit,” she said.

“This is a fantastic endorsement for all those who contribute to Greater Bendigo’s strong reputation as a must-see destination.

“We have a passionate and hard-working tourism industry, including attractions, accommodation, retail, and hospitality providers that are proud to offer unique experiences and service for visitors of all ages and interests.

“Tourism is vital for our local economy because it supports a diverse range of businesses, generates job opportunities, and keeps the spend local.”

A spokesperson from the City of Greater Bendigo said it has been a “huge” year for arts and cultural activities in the region,

Draw cards like Australiana: Designing a Nation and The Australian Women’s Weekly: 90 years of an Australian Icon are currently on at Bendigo Art Gallery, while Richard Wagner’s epic opera the Ring Cycle was staged at the Ulumbarra theatre.

Bendigo took home second in the Top Tourism Town category, losing out to Ballarat.

Heathcote’s natural landscapes, wineries, and walking and cycling trails led to the town’s silver award in the Top Small Tourism Town award, beaten by Sorento.

The second-place awards come after Bendigo took home gold and bronze titles from the Qantas Australian Tourism Awards in March this year.