Daylesford was last night named the best Small Tourism Town for 2024 at the TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town awards.
The Awards recognise and reward towns that demonstrate a strong commitment to tourism and to increasing visitation to the destination, that offer an excellent visitor experience, and exhibit collaboration with tourism operators, local businesses and the community, to make their town the best destination it can be.
Hepburn Shire Mayor, Brian Hood, said the Council was thrilled to have won the award against some formidable competition.
“Daylesford is beautiful in all seasons, with visitors travelling great distances to spend time rejuvenating and seeking wellness experiences. The town’s natural beauty, including Wombat Gardens and the top-quality amenities around the Daylesford Lake, has always drawn people for weddings and celebrations, and to escape from the city.”
“We have a vibrant arts community and events throughout the year. Set amidst heritage buildings and hills and forests, Daylesford will continue to draw people from many walks of life for rest and recreation, be it short-term or for more lengthy stays,” he said.
Daylesford was nominated by Daylesford Macedon Tourism (DMT) in partnership with Council. The award is judged on a demonstration of commitment to tourism and increasing visitation, excellent visitor experience, and exhibiting collaboration with tourism operators, local businesses and the community.
In his acceptance speech, Mayor Hood thanked the locals and visitors who voted for Daylesford and acknowledged the great work undertaken by Steve Wroe and his team at DMT in collaboration with Council’s Economic development team.
Daylesford won in the category ‘Top Small Tourism Town’ (population between 1,500 and 5,000) against Heathcote, Koroit, Maldon and Sorrento.
The awards were announced at an event in Lancefield last night.
