Kiama is celebrating success at the national tourism town awards after winning state competition. Photo: Chilby Photography.
Kiama has come close to claiming the national title of Top Tourism Town, with the coastal community settling for bronze after blitzing the state competition for the second year.
The Illawarra town was showcased as one of Australia’s premier visitor destinations at the awards, narrowly missing out on the crown which went to Western Australia’s Fremantle.
“Reaching the national finals is a proud moment for Kiama and a reflection of our community’s hard work and passion for welcoming visitors,” Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald said.
“We may not have taken home the top prize this time, but we’ve shown that Kiama belongs on the national stage.”
Kiama claimed the state title earlier in the year, edging out its larger neighbour Shellharbour.
With iconic locations like the world-famous blowhole and pristine beaches, coastal walks and the green rolling hinterland, Kiama’s continual success in the competition comes down to factors such as natural beauty, record-breaking visitor economy results and a strong, community-led tourism strategy.
Kiama Mayor Cameron McDonald, Destination Kiama’s Sally Bursell, Cr Matt Brown and Kiama CEO Jane Stroud at Australia’s Top Tourism Town awards. Photo: Supplied.
“Being recognised as NSW’s Top Tourism Town and going on to represent our state at the national awards is an outstanding achievement,” Destination Kiama Chair Cr Matt Brown said.
“This honour belongs to our local businesses, tourism operators and community, who together make Kiama a place visitors want to return to again and again.”
The Illawarra and South Coast regions were well represented at the ceremony with Huskisson claiming silver for the national Tiny Tourism Town title which is for populations less than 1500, after winning the category last year.
Merimbula was also a finalist in the Small Tourism Town category for towns with a population between 1500 and 5000 people.
Now Kiama Municipal Council is hoping to build on the momentum of the competition to continue elevating the region as a must-visit destination for both domestic and international travellers.
“Being part of these awards provides a golden opportunity to elevate our region, inspire tourism operators, and celebrate the very best of community-led destination development,” Cr McDonald said.
For the full list of winners visit the Top Tourism Towns website.
