Timboon has won silver in the Top Tourism Town Awards for the second year running.
The town was second in the Tiny Tourism Town category for towns with less than 1500 people behind Mount Macedon and ahead of Noojee.
Mayor Ruth Gstrein congratulated all of the tourism operators in and around Timboon for making the area such a great tourism destination.
“These awards recognise the best regional Victoria has to offer and it’s an honour for Timboon to be recognised so highly two years in a row,” Cr Gstrein said.
“The awards were decided by a combination of judging and popular vote and I’d like to thank all the people who supported Council’s submission by voting.
“Our Visitor Information Centre team put together a terrific submission including a three-day itinerary and pointing visitors to our great businesses and attractions.
“This award is another string to our bow when we encourage visitors to come and explore the Shire.”
South-West Ward Councillor Kate Makin said the award showed Timboon was a consistent performer in quality visitor experiences.
“So many people put in a huge effort all year round to make the Great Ocean Road and hinterland a world class destination,” Cr Makin said.
“It’s fantastic that our businesses support one another and encourage visitors to visit other destinations and attractions while they’re in our region.
“Council is always active in promoting and advertising the region and building relationships through the Visitor Information Centre, social media and campaigns with Great Ocean Road Regional Tourism.
“I’d also like to congratulate our neighbours over in Moyne Shire where Port Fairy won Top Small Tourism Town with 1500 to 5000 people.
“Together we are building South West Victoria’s reputation for having not just one or two stops but a whole range of choices and experiences for visitors to enjoy.”
Now in their second year, the Top Tourism Town Awards are hosted by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC).
VTIC Chief Executive, Felicia Mariani, said the 2022 awards were presented at an event in Healesville, which showcased the 18 finalists across three categories:
- Tiny Tourism Town awarded to towns with less than 1500 people
- Small Tourism Town awarded to those with 1500 to 5000 people
- Top Tourism Town awarded to towns with over 5000 people
Accolades were handed to nine towns across the state with Bendigo, Port Fairy and Mount Macedon winning gold in their respective categories, while Echuca, Sorrento and Timboon won silver and Heathcote, Frankston and Noojee were awarded bronze.
“It was a terrific evening to celebrate the regional towns in Victoria that offer superb tourism experiences and attractions.
“I look forward to seeing the winners represent the state at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards later this year.”
The Timboon submission, including the three-day itinerary, can be found at vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/timboon .
