Halls Gap shines in Top Tourism Town Awards

Caption: From left, Northern Grampians Shire tourism and marketing lead Anna Gellert, councillor Justine Hide, team leader visitor services Julie Gibson and events officer Jana Turkalj celebrate Halls Gap’s silver accolade at the Top Tourism Town Awards in Shepparton last week.

Halls Gap has won recognition as an outstanding tourist destination, taking out silver at the Top Tourism Town Awards in Shepparton last week. 

The awards, presented by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council, VTIC, recognise excellence in tourism across the state, highlighting the vibrant and diverse destinations that make regional Victoria shine.  

Northern Grampians Shire mayor Karen Hyslop said it was exciting to see the small-but-mighty town collect the silver accolade, which reflected the community’s passion and the unique natural beauty of the Grampians region. 

“The award is particularly uplifting following the summer’s devastating bushfire season, which threatened Halls Gap, burnt a significant amount of Grampians National Park and devastated tourism operators,” she said.  

“The award is more than recognition, it is a moment of healing, pride and hope. This achievement shines as a powerful reminder that resilience, beauty and renewal can flourish in even the hardest of times. 

“We are beyond proud of our town and our people.” 

Cr Hyslop thanked the VTIC and congratulated the other award finalists, including neighbours Dunkeld and Natimuk. 

“The energy, innovation and passion in small towns across regional Victoria is truly inspiring,” she said.  

“To our community, tourism operators, volunteers, event organisers, artists, local businesses — thank you. You are the beating heart of Halls Gap.” 

Trentham took out the Top Tiny Tourism Town category, for towns with a population of 5000 of fewer. Warrnambool was named Victorian Top Tourism Town, population 5000-plus, while Mount Beauty won the Top Small Tourism Town Award, population 1500 to 5000.   

Acting VTIC chief executive Chris Porter said this year’s awards showcased the strength and diversity of offerings in regional destinations across Victoria. 

“A theme we have seen this year is that many of the winners are located further out of Melbourne, with destinations showcasing why visitors should travel to enjoy the delights that the winning Top Tourism Towns have to offer,” he said.  

“The winners are a reflection of the quality visitor experiences that can be found in all parts of the state, with visitors more likely to stay for at least one night, rather than just the day, due to their fantastic offering.” 

Halls Gap is a destination that brings together nature lovers, adventurers, families and foodies alike, whether for a weekend retreat or an active holiday immersed in the outdoors.  

Cr Hyslop encouraged people to visit, explore and reconnect with nature, culture and community. 

“While Halls Gap is currently in the spotlight, our entire region is full of wonderful things to see and do. I urge people to make the most of it and encourage their family and friends to do the same,” she said. 

People can follow ‘Discover Northern Grampians’ on Facebook for more information about tourism and events in Northern Grampians Shire.