(Left) Last year’s Top Tourism Town, Kiama (left) and (right) The Farm at Killalea in Shellharbour. Photos: Destination NSW / Shellharbour
City Council.
Kiama is once again a finalist in the NSW Top Tourism Town Awards after claiming the crown last year, but will face stiff competition from other regions and within the Illawarra ranks.
For the title of Top Tourism Town (population over 5000), Kiama will be challenged by Ballina and Kingscliff in the Northern Rivers, Coffs Harbour in the Mid-North Coast, Newcastle in the Hunter, Terrigal in the Central Coast, Wagga Wagga in the Riverina – and the Illawarra’s very own Shellharbour.
The two sparkling gems in the Illawarra coastal crown also went toe to toe last year.
Kiama Deputy Mayor and restaurateur Melissa Matters said tourism remained a cornerstone of the Kiama economy, injecting vitality into local businesses, nurturing a vibrant destination and reflecting the passion, dedication and hospitality that defined the community.
“This nomination is a true credit to our local businesses, tourism operators, event organisers and the wider community – all of whom go above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences for our visitors,” she said.
“Programs like the Top Tourism Town Awards provide an important opportunity to shine a spotlight not just on Kiama, but our entire municipality, reinforcing the value of tourism and helping to share our story with the world.”
But smooth sailing isn’t a given for last year’s victor, with Shellharbour once again making a strong case.
Shellharbour City Mayor Chris Homer, too, pointed to the awards being testament to the incredible work done by the city’s local businesses, tourism operators, volunteers and community members.
“Shellharbour truly has something to offer for everyone. Seeing our city in the running for the Top Tourism Town Award is proof we are doing something right in our tourism space,” he said.
“From the National Surfing Reserve including the Farm at Killalea and the Waterfront Precinct at Shell Cove, to HARS Aviation Museum and Macquarie Pass National Park, Shellharbour offers an amazing variety of experiences for all visitors to the region.
“Every vote helps us show the strength and pride of our local region. I call on everyone to rally together and give Shellharbour the recognition it truly deserves.”
Neighbouring regions also had their share of recognition, with Shoalhaven’s Huskisson in the running for Tiny Town (Population below 1500) and in the Small Tourism Town (Population 1500 to 5000) category, Robertson in the Southern Highlands and Merimbula at Sapphire Coast.
The Top Tourism Town Awards, coordinated by the Australian Tourism Industry Council, celebrate towns that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and demonstrate a strong commitment to tourism development and promotion.
Public voting is a key component of the judging process and plays a vital role in determining the overall winner, and a way for residents and visitors alike to show their support by casting a vote for their favourite town.
“By voting you’re showing your appreciation for the many passionate and hardworking locals who bring our town to life – from cafes, and restaurant staff, to accommodation hosts, shopkeepers, galleries and gift shops, as well as our tour guides of all stripes,” Kiama Council Tourism and Economic Advisory Chair Matt Brown said.
“These people are the heartbeat of our tourism industry and they do an incredible job every day representing all that’s great about our corner of the world.”
Voting is now open and closes on Sunday 4 May at 11:59 pm – vote here.
