Kempsey Shire Council’s Slim Dusty Centre has been shortlisted as a finalist in the Best Grey Nomad Attraction at the prestigious Grey Nomad Awards.
The Centre was named as a finalist in the 2022 Best Grey Nomad Attraction category after proving to national tourism leaders that it provided an exceptional experience for visitors aged over 50, Kempsey Shire Council said proudly in a statement this week.
Operations Supervisor at the Slim Dusty Centre, Yolande Williams said the announcement was a testament to Slim Dusty’s everlasting legacy.
“So many Australians especially Grey Nomads, grow up with Slim Dusty playing on the radio during car trips, on the stereo in our living rooms or more recently streaming on digital platforms,” said Ms Williams.
“Continuing to showcase the highly successful career of Slim at the centre with his memorabilia and personal effects, despite the setbacks of the past few years has meant anyone travelling through can stop in and relive Slim’s iconic music career.”
Not only is the Sim Dusty Centre the home of all things Slim, but it is also the location of the Macleay Valley Coast Visitor Information Centre, the Nulla Nulla Art Gallery, café, visitor information centre, conference facility and gift shop.
The future of the centre was secured in late 2021 when Kempsey Shire Council agreed to permanently take over ownership and management of the facility.
Awards Director, Kim Morgan said the Grey Nomad Awards shine a light on regional and remote Australia by rewarding organisations and destinations which cater to mature age visitors in an exemplary way.
“The Awards foster a better lifestyle for over 50s while providing verified information which guides travellers’ decisions on where to visit, play and stay,” said Ms Morgan.
“Having said that, the past year proved to be a particularly challenging one for those wanting to welcome grey nomads into their towns, communities and tourism businesses. That is why our judges want to give a special shout-out to Slim Dusty Centre and the other finalists who have all demonstrated an unmatched commitment to customer service,” said Ms Morgan.
Winners in all 11 categories will be announced on Friday 17 February.
