The Top Tourism Industry Awards event took place in the morning of Wednesday, May 29, with the Hon. John GRAHAM, MLC, Minister for Jobs and Tourism, presenting the accolades. 

Kiama secured the top spot, edging out Ballina in second place and Newcastle in third. The Top Tourism Town Awards highlight the significance of tourism to towns and communities across New South Wales, celebrating the state's diverse and outstanding regional destinations.

Kiama was recognised for its abundant natural attractions, including national parks, beaches, and waterfalls. Paula Martin, Executive Director of Regional NSW & Visitor Economy at Business NSW, remarked, "With their picturesque landscapes, rich historical significance, abundance of activities, and warm welcoming community spirit, Huskisson, Berry, and Kiama have become shining beacons in regional NSW’s tourism landscape."

From left to right: Lauren Res, Visitor Services Coordinator - Destination Kiama, Cr Matt Brown, Chair - Destination Kiama, Belinda Williams, Tourism and Marketing Lead - Destination Kiama, and Paula Martin, Executive Director - Business NSW.

Huskisson was awarded the title of Top Tiny Town, while Berry took home the Top Small Town award. Tourism and Marketing Lead, Belinda Williams, explained that the Top Tourism Awards required Destination Kiama to submit a comprehensive bid. “The bid included a detailed application, an itinerary for a specified target visitor market, and a video encapsulating the essence of the destination,” Williams said.

Mayor Neil Reilly expressed pride in the recognition, stating, “It’s just further confirmation of what our residents and regular visitors have known for a long time. Kiama holds a special place in the hearts of many people, from all corners of our state, country, and indeed the world, and this recognition underscores that sentiment.”

Councillor Matt Brown, Chair of Destination Kiama, was thrilled by Kiama’s success, saying, “We want to thank the businesses in and around Kiama for helping achieve this, plus Sally Bursell and the staff at Destination Kiama for their exemplary work.” 

He added, “A key part of the awards are the people who vote, so we particularly want to thank everyone who voted.”

Winning the award will raise Kiama's profile and boost visitation, positively impacting local businesses. Kiama, Ballina, and Newcastle will now represent NSW at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards later this year, competing against other state winners for the national title.

Incidentally, local Kiama residents Clodagh O'Rourke and Robert Virgona, who operate the business Etchcraft, designed and produced the award trophies.