Greater Bendigo scoops four gold awards at the RACV Victorian Tourism Awards

Greater Bendigo scooped four golds, one silver and one bronze at the 2019 RACV Victorian Tourism Awards at a ceremony in Melbourne last night.

The City of Greater Bendigo won gold in the Local Government Award for Tourism, which recognises excellence in tourism planning, the provision of tourism facilities and services, marketing, event development and management, and the overall contribution made both locally and overall to their State/Territory’s tourism industry.

The City scooped gold in the Destination Marketing category for its national and international campaign and royal themed experiences across the region to promote the Australian-exclusive exhibition Tudors to Windsors at Bendigo Art Gallery.

The City’s Digital Marketing Officer Izabelle So won the Young Achievers Award which recognises an individual under 35 years old, who is working in the tourism industry and their contribution to the development of a vibrant and professional tourism industry. 

Bendigo Tramways won gold in the Cultural Tourism Award as a tourism operator that fosters a greater understanding and appreciation of authentic culture, history, heritage and/or the arts. 

The City’s Bendigo Visitor Centre also received bronze in recognition of its consistent high-quality customer service and face to face interaction with visitors.

Mayor Margaret O’Rourke said the awards endorsed Greater Bendigo's reputation as a major regional tourist destination that continued to strive for business excellence and innovation and welcomed visitors wholeheartedly. 

"Winning these awards is a magnificent achievement and I would like to congratulate the City’s Tourism and Major Events unit, Bendigo Tramways, Balgownie Estate and all of the staff and volunteers at the Bendigo Visitor Centre for their outstanding achievement in delivering a great visitor experience,” Cr O’Rourke said.   

"It is a wonderful outcome to win gold awards at a state level and to be endorsed as leaders in promoting excellence in tourism.”   

Regional Tourism Special Advisor and Member for Macedon Mary-Anne Thomas said Bendigo deserved the awards.

“Bendigo deserves special plaudits for its double act at these prestigious awards, which for 30 years have showcased and recognised the state’s leaders in tourism excellence,” Ms Thomas said.

The winery Balgownie Estate won silver in the Unique Accommodation category for its glamping tent accommodation.

Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival was a finalist in the Festivals and Events category. Bendigo Regional Tourism was a finalist for its Digital Mentoring Program in the Tourism Education and Training category.

The winners of each category will now compete with other states and territories for a chance to be recognised as the best in the country at the Australian Tourism Awards next year.