Koondrook a Top Tourism Town finalist

Published on 03 June 2024

Koondrook is in the running to win one of Victoria’s top tourism accolades.

The town has been announced as a finalist in the Top Tiny Tourism Town category for the 2024 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, with the category winner to represent Victoria at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards.

Determined by an initial judging process, a public vote will now help to determine the winner, with Gannawarra residents and visitors encouraged to vote via www.vtic.com.au/toptourismtown before 5pm Monday, 24 June.

“Gannawarra residents know that Koondrook is a great tourist destination thanks to its proximity to the Murray River and Gunbower Forest,” Gannawarra Shire Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“For Koondrook to be recognised alongside fellow finalists Arthurs Seat, Dookie, Timboon and Trawool, and be regarding for the same awards as Ballarat, Bendigo, Echuca, Mildura, Shepparton, Sorrento and Warrnambool is a credit to the work local businesses, community groups, residents and Council have undertaken to promote the area.”

As part of the nomination process, Council’s Tourism team developed an editorial, promotional video and suggested two-day, one night itinerary for tourists, highlighted by visits to Koondrook Wharf and waterfront, a paddle on Gunbower Creek, eating at local businesses and an overnight stay at Koondrook Retreat.

“Council has spent the past decade assisting the community in transforming Koondrook into Victoria’s nature based tourism destination, highlighted by the construction of the architectural award winning Koondrook Wharf and Koondrook Glamping Retreat,” Mr Rollinson said.

“Being a finalist will bring additional exposure to Koondrook and these projects will increase local tourism numbers and provide flow-on benefits to the municipality.”

All who cast a vote during the three-week judging period will be in the running to win a luxurious weekend in Melbourne for two, including two nights at Sofitel Melbourne on Collins, $500 in restaurant voucher and experiences.

The Victorian Tourism Industry Council will announce the winner of its TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards during a ceremony at Mount Macedon in late July.