Kiama continues to shine on the national tourism stage, receiving high praise at the prestigious 'Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards' in Canberra today.
While this year's top prize went to Devonport, Tasmania, Kiama proudly stood alongside some of Australia's most celebrated destinations, including Bendigo (VIC), Busselton (WA), Roma (QLD), and Victor Harbor (SA).
The awards were presented by the Australian Tourism Industry Council at The Great Hall in Parliament House, Canberra, recognised regional communities and their commitment to high-quality tourism experiences, sustainability practices, and effective marketing strategies.
Other winners included Exmouth in WA for Small Town and Huskisson in our neighbouring Shoalhaven won Gold for the best Tiny Town in Australia.
Kiama Municipal Council's CEO, Jane Stroud, and Tourism & Events Manager, Sally Bursell, represented Kiama at the awards ceremony.
Reflecting on the event, Ms. Stroud remarked, "Although we didn't take home the gold this year, we are incredibly proud of Kiama's ongoing recognition on a national level."
"It's even more of an achievement given this is the first time we have entered Kiama into these awards."
"To be among such incredible destinations is an honour in itself, and it speaks volumes about the appeal and resilience of our town."
We're especially thrilled for our near neighbour Huskisson taking out top Tiny Town; congratulations Husky!"
Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards are an annual, prestigious platform that celebrates the best regional destinations across the country.
Towns compete in categories based on their population size, with Kiama entering after winning gold at a state level.
Ms. Bursell also emphasised the significance of Kiama's continued presence in the spotlight.
"Being acknowledged as a finalist reaffirms what we've always known – that Kiama offers an exceptional tourism experience."
"Our stunning natural beauty, laid-back local culture, and welcoming community make Kiama a place that keeps visitors coming back, year after year."
Ms Stroud added that the recognition was a win for everyone in our community, especially those who voted for Kiama.
"It reminds us of the incredible work our local businesses, residents, and tourism operators put in every day to make Kiama the special place that it is."
Ms. Stroud also extended her congratulations to Devonport for their well-deserved win, as well as Exmouth and Huskisson.
"It's fantastic to see tourism destinations across the country being recognised," she said.
About Kiama:
Kiama is a magnetic coastal town located in New South Wales, renowned for its stunning natural attractions, rich history, and welcoming community.
It offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors, from remarkable coastal walks and beaches to local markets, festivals, and cultural events.
About Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards:
Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards are a prestigious platform that celebrates the best regional destinations across the country.
Towns compete in categories based on their population size- Top Tourism Town (5,000+ population), Small Tourism Town (1,500-5,000 population) and Tiny Tourism Town (under 1,500 population).
Each award showcases a town's unique attractions, amenities, and infrastructure, highlighting the best in Australian tourism.
Winners are selected through a combination of public votes and industry judging, gaining national recognition, increased visitation, and widespread publicity.
Destination Kiama's commitment to growing tourism
The NSW south coast is synonymous with summertime holidays, but it's when the summer crowds clear out, that Kiama delivers a new level of magic.
It's a little-known fact the winter/off-peak season is where we focus our marketing campaigns.
Our Tourism Opportunities Plan (TOP) and visitor forecasting data informs us in balancing the gap between summer and winter tourism for sustainable growth.
Recent campaigns such as 'Coast In. Chill Out', 'Winter Never Looked So Good' and 'Romance on the Coast', alongside collaboration with the Grand Pacific Drive, have directly highlighted the exceptional experiences Kiama offers during the cooler months.
These Winter marketing campaign centre around collaboration and packaging amongst Destination Kiama's 226 partners as we shift visitors to consider Kiama as a winter time destination of choice.
This partnership program also offers local operators capacity-building workshops, famils, and networking opportunities, empowering, and connecting businesses to enhance tourism potential.
Event funding encourages event organisers to schedule outside peak times, enhancing Kiama's nightlife and year-round appeal.
Festivals like Kiama Winter Festival, Winter Wine Festival, Distilled, and Kiama Coastal Classic extend visitor stays and boost the nighttime economy, aligning with sustainability goals.
Community involvement is central to our strategy.
By engaging and educating residents on the benefits of the visitor economy and wonders of our area, we not only create a welcoming environment but also have a town of ambassadors.
Photo: Kiama Council CEO Jane Stroud, Member for Gilmore Fiona Phillips MP and Manager Tourism and Events Sally Bursell at the awards
