The search is on for Queensland’s Top Town
Queenslanders are being called on to nominate their favourite hotspots, local treasures and hidden gems for the 2025 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards.
Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the Top Tourism Town Awards aim to recognise Queensland’s diverse and outstanding regional destinations, according to the council’s CEO Natassia Wheeler
“Queensland is a treasure trove of incredible destinations, each with its own charm and character,” Wheeler said.
“Whether it’s unearthing ancient fossils in the outback, unwinding in the lush hinterland, or soaking up the beauty of our pristine coastlines, our regional communities offer experiences as diverse as they are unforgettable. Now, it’s time to recognise the very best among them.
“We’re calling on locals and tourism operators to nominate their town and show us what makes their slice of paradise truly special.”
There are four awards in the program: the Top Tourism Town Award, which recognises towns with a with a population over 5000; the Top Small Tourism Town Award, for those with a population between 1500-5000; the Top Tiny Tourism Town Award, for those with a population below 1500; and the Top Tour Guide Award.
Returning in 2025, the Top Tour Guide Award recognises a tour guide or coach captain who goes above and beyond in providing guests with an exceptional experience.
“Tour guides are a significant part of any great holiday, so it’s important we recognise these amazing individuals for their contributions to a fantastic getaway,” said Wheeler.
“Our state’s rich history is brought to life by these guides and we want Queenslanders to tell us which of these storytellers is worthy of this great award.”
Last year, 25 towns and nine tour guides were nominated for the awards, with Roma, Airlie Beach and Winton taking out Top Tourism Town, Top Small Tourism Town, and Top Tiny Tourism Town respectively, and Adam Hinks from Magnetic Island’s Aquascene taking home the state’s highest accolade for a tour guide.
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The award winners go on to represent Queensland at the national awards held later in the year where they have the chance to be crowned one of Australia’s Top Tourism Towns or Tour Guide.
Nominations are now open on the QTIC website and close Monday March 10. The winners will be announced in June at an awards ceremony in Brisbane.
“Earning the title of a top tourism town takes a collective effort – from the warm welcome at a family-run café to the unforgettable adventures crafted by local tour operators. We want to honour those communities that help make Queensland a premier travel destination,” said Wheeler.
“Every year our fantastic judges have a tremendous challenge set out for them, and I have no doubt that this year will be just as challenging.”
