The Old Dubbo Gaol has won gold at the 2026 NSW Tourism Awards in the Cultural Tourism category and silver in the Tourist Attractions category.
Dubbo Regional Council Mayor Josh Black congratulated the Old Dubbo Gaol team on their achievements at the NSW Tourism Awards.
“This is a fantastic result for Old Dubbo Gaol and great recognition of the work our team puts in every day to create a memorable experience for visitors and showcase the history and stories of the Old Dubbo Gaol.
“The Old Dubbo Gaol is one of the Dubbo region’s iconic tourist attractions, and these awards not only showcase the quality experiences on offer in the Dubbo region but recognise the team behind them.
“This is the second consecutive year that the Old Dubbo Gaol has won gold in the Cultural Tourism category at the NSW Tourism Awards, highlighting the ongoing commitment for showcasing history and culture and the ongoing improvements to the site,” Clr Black said.
Over the past year, the team at Old Dubbo Gaol has continued to build on their success through new exhibitions, heritage conservation projects and initiatives that support the sharing of local history and culture.
The gaol launched Drawing Out Justice: Planning Dubbo Gaol, a temporary exhibition exploring the evolution of the gaol’s design from the 1870s to the 1960s.
The team also delivered a series of special behind-the-scenes heritage talks, giving visitors rare access to collection items not usually on display and providing a unique opportunity to learn more about the stories, people and history connected to Old Dubbo Gaol.
Work has also commenced on a major conservation and restoration project to preserve several significant historic structures including the male division, kitchen and the entrance to the Old Dubbo Gaol. This preservation work ensures this important landmark can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.
“I would also like to congratulate Taronga Western Plains Zoo’s Director, Steve Hinks who was awarded the Outstanding Contribution to Tourism by an Individual at the NSW Tourism Awards. This is wonderful recognition for his contribution to tourism in regional NSW,” Clr Black said.
The Old Dubbo Gaol will now progress to the 2026 Australian Tourism Awards, which will be held in Geelong in February 2027.
