Woodend has been named a finalist in the 2023 TAC Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards.
The Macedon Ranges town is competing for the top title in the small regional Victorian town category alongside Heathcote, Koroit and Sorrento.
Award finalists have demonstrated a strong commitment to tourism, excellent visitor experience, and strong collaboration with tourism operators, local businesses and the community.
Macedon Ranges mayor Annette Death said Woodend had many elements that made it a top tourist destination.
“Woodend has a beautiful natural environment with views of Mount Macedon, the iconic Hanging Rock just a stone’s throw away, delicious local produce, amazing cafes and restaurants, an award-winning brewery and amazing wineries close by,” she said.
“There is always something to see and do too, such as regular markets and the annual Woodend Winter Arts Festival.”
Woodend was named most liveable regional town in Victoria earlier this year in a PwC study.
Cr Death encouraged people to show their support and vote for Woodend in this year’s VTIC awards.
“Awards like these help get the word out about our beautiful region and attract more visitors, who ultimately end up supporting our local businesses by buying products, dining in our cafes and restaurants, or staying in local accommodation,” she said.
“Woodend’s chance to win is based on a public vote and voting only takes a matter of minutes – we’d love to see it come out on top among some impressive competition.”
As an extra incentive, voters can go into the draw to win a luxurious weekend for two in Melbourne.
Woodend’s nomination comes a year after Mount Macedon won the Victorian Top Tiny Town award for 2022, followed by bronze at the national awards.
Voting is open now until June 22 at 5pm. State winners will be announced on July 26 and will go on represent Victoria in national awards.
To make your vote count, visit: vtic.com.au/toptourismtown
