What does Cowra, Port Fairy and Palm Cove have in common?
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
They’re all named in the top 10 of the 2019 Wotif Aussie Town of the Year awards.
Cowra took out sixth spot, one of only three NSW destinations, narrowly beaten by Forster in fifth place and three spots above Dubbo in ninth.
The awards aim to support local communities by encouraging Australians to discover more of their own backyard. They are based on Wotif pricing and demand data and traveller reviews.
Wotif Travel Expert, Chris Mulligan, said tourists were looking to discover their own backyards.
“We know from traveller research that Aussies cite discovering more of their backyard as the number one reason for travelling domestically and with the quintessential road trip the preferred method of travel,” he said
“Uniquely Australian experiences are giving people a reason to travel, and best thing Cowra operators can do is meet and exceed the expectations of tourists. Play up the reasons and experiences that bring people here, whether it’s the Wine Show or the Cherry Blossom Festival,” he said.
Cowra Tourism Manager, Belinda Virgo, agreed, saying experiences locals had become used to are being embraced by visitors.
“Visitors are fascinated and excited about what we see as everyday occurrences in the countryside,” she said.
“Whether that be kangaroos bouncing around at the peace precinct, canola fields in the spring, the sheep sales on a Friday or being able to go to the farm gate and meet the farmers. These are the experiences our visitors are seeking, embracing and appreciating.
“We really are on the doorstep of the countryside, at the juncture of so many highways, with proximity to larger centres like Orange and Bathurst and an easy day trip or weekend distance from Canberra and an overnight trip from Sydney,” she said.
Chairman of Cowra Tourism, Cr Ray Walsh, said he was delighted to see Cowra rated so highly.
“I commend all the local tourism operators and I want to pay special tribute to the professional staff at the Cowra Visitor Information Centre, the managers of the Cowra Van Park, and the Japanese Garden staff as these areas rate highly,” he said
“The beautiful parks and gardens of the town, maintained by Council staff, were another reason for the high rating, I'd like to thank everyone who has contributed in any way to Cowra being a favoured tourist destination.”
Cowra tourism Events and Marketing Officer, Kurt Overzet, said Cowra is an amazing destination.
“We have so much to offer our visitors, from our rich World War II history to our breathtaking landscape and superb local wine and produce, we're glad Cowra is receiving the recognition it deserves,” he said.
“Visitors don’t realise until they arrive in town and come to the visitors centre, all of the things Cowra has to offer.
“Once they do realise what there is in town and what there is to explore they always stay longer.
“Those passing through for a visit stay for the day, overnight, or visitors who were going to stay for one night stay for two or three,” he said.
READ MORE: