Town repeats tourism awards success

BENDIGO has taken first place at the 2024 Victorian Top Tourism Town awards announced last week.

Bendigo was named winner in the Top Tourism Town category for a population of more than 5000.

The Victoria Tourism Industry Council awards were presented at a ceremony in Lancefield.

The three Victorian gold winners will now compete for the national title in their categories, with winners announced on 10 September.

City of Greater Bendigo mayor Andrea Metcalf said she was “delighted” with the results.

“It is such a fantastic endorsement for all those who contribute to Greater Bendigo’s strong reputation as a must-see destination and I thank everyone who voted for Bendigo,” Cr Metcalf said.

Tourism events in Bendigo this year have included the Easter Festival’s Year of the Dragon, the Paris exhibition at the art gallery and the successful French-themed Bonjour Bendigo marketing campaign.

Entries were assessed based on written and video submissions, online user reviews and public votes.

“These awards are testament to our passionate and hard-working tourist industry, as well as city staff working in a variety of roles to ensure the region always looks its best,” Cr Metcalf said.

“Our attractions, accommodation, retail and hospitality providers welcome visitors wholeheartedly and they are proud to offer unique experiences and service for tourists of all ages and interests.”

Heathcote took bronze placing in the Top Small Tourism Town category for a population of 1500 to 5000.

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

Heathcote was recognised for its natural landscape, boutique wineries and walking and cycling trails.

This is the fourth year that Bendigo and Heathcote have made the finals.

In 2022, Bendigo won gold in the Top Tourism Town Category and Heathcote won bronze in the Top Small Tourism Town category, with Bendigo achieving silver in the national finals. Both won silver at last year’s awards.

Seventeen finalists were in the running this year, with Daylesford taking gold in the Top Small Tourism Town category and Timboon the same in the Top Tiny Tourism Town category (population under 1000).

Silver placings went to Warrnambool in the Top Tourism Town category, Sorrento for Small Tourism Town and Arthurs Seat for Tiny Tourism Town.

Bronze commendations were awarded to Ballarat, Heathcote and Koondrook respectively.

VTIC chief executive Felicia Mariani said the awards showcased the diverse range of regional destinations in Victoria and the economic benefits that tourism brought to the towns.