Western Australia achieved significant recognition in the 2023 7NEWS Top Tourism Town Awards, with Mandurah taking the title of Top Tourism Town and Dwellingup earning the Gold in the Tiny Tourism Town category. These awards, presented at a national ceremony in Canberra, shine a spotlight on WA’s growing tourism appeal and diverse experiences.
Mandurah: A Coastal Treasure
Mandurah has long been celebrated for its pristine coastline, abundant waterways, and vibrant culture. As the 2023 Top Tourism Town, Mandurah offers a range of recreational activities for tourists, from boating and fishing to wildlife spotting along its scenic shores. This coastal city also boasts “The Giants,” an outdoor art exhibition by internationally acclaimed artist Thomas Dambo, providing a unique blend of artistic immersion and natural exploration.
The award highlights Mandurah’s concerted efforts to create a vibrant tourist economy while emphasizing sustainable and accessible tourism. Local businesses and tourism operators are aligned in showcasing the city’s natural beauty and cultural richness through immersive experiences and events【27†source】.
Dwellingup: Tiny Tourism Town with a Big Impact
Nestled within the Darling Range, Dwellingup is a hidden gem of natural attractions and outdoor adventure. By securing the Gold in the Tiny Tourism Town category, Dwellingup showcases Western Australia’s strength in ecotourism, offering visitors a wide array of activities such as hiking, river rafting, and mountain biking. Its location among old-growth forests, combined with river excursions and scenic bike trails, positions it as an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts.
Evan Hall, CEO of Tourism Council WA, praised the town’s innovative experiences: “Dwellingup, nestled among old-growth forests, offers nature-based and adventure experiences including bushwalking, river activities, and mountain bike trails”.
Rosanna Angus: An Exemplary Tour Guide
Further strengthening Western Australia’s tourism accolades, Broome’s Rosanna Angus was named Australia’s Top Tour Guide, recognized for her exceptional cultural tours on Sunday Island. Her contributions help promote and preserve Aboriginal heritage while inspiring future generations of guides.
Strengthening Tourism in WA
These successes showcase Western Australia’s strategic approach to developing tourism. The awards, which are organized by the Australian Tourism Industry Council and supported by Tourism Australia, Qantas, and local media partners, recognize towns that offer innovative, sustainable, and community-focused experiences.
Tourism Council WA’s collaboration with local businesses continues to solidify the state’s standing in the tourism sector, highlighting the importance of nature-based experiences alongside cultural and economic development. The 7NEWS Top Tourism Town Awards underscore the unique role that regional towns play in enriching the Australian travel experience.