Queenslanders are being called on to nominate their favourite hotspots, local treasures, and hidden gems for the 2025 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards.

Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the annual Top Tourism Town Awards recognise Queensland’s diverse and outstanding regional destinations.

QTIC CEO Natassia Wheeler encourages all Queenslanders to get involved and to throw their support behind the Sunshine State’s regional getaways and nominating their beloved spots.

“Queensland is a treasure trove of incredible destinations, each with its own charm and character. Whether it’s unearthing ancient fossils in the outback, unwinding in the lush hinterland, or soaking up the beauty of our pristine coastlines, our regional communities offer experiences as diverse as they are unforgettable. Now, it’s time to recognise the very best among them,” said Wheeler.

“The Top Tourism Town Awards shine a spotlight on the communities that go above and beyond to create truly memorable visitor experiences. It’s a chance to celebrate the passion, teamwork, and local pride that make these towns stand out to holidaymakers.

“Earning the title of a top tourism town takes a collective effort – from the warm welcome at a family-run café to the unforgettable adventures crafted by local tour operators. We want to honour those communities that help make Queensland a premier travel destination.

“We’re calling on locals and tourism operators to nominate their town and show us what makes their slice of paradise truly special.

“Every year our fantastic judges have a tremendous challenge set out for them, and I have no doubt that this year will be just as challenging.”

There are four awards in the program, with a Top Tour Guide Award returning in 2025:

• Top Tourism Town Award – those with a population over 5,000
• Top Small Tourism Town Award – those with a population between 1,500 – 5,000
• Top Tiny Tourism Town Award – those with a population below 1,500
• Top Tour Guide Award

The Top Tour Guide Award recognises a tour guide or coach captain who goes above and beyond in providing guests with an exceptional experience.

“Tour guides are a significant part of any great holiday, so it’s important we recognise these amazing individuals for their contributions to a fantastic getaway.”

“Our state’s rich history is brought to life by these guides and we want Queenslanders to tell us which of these storytellers is worthy of this great award,” said Wheeler.

With nominations now open and closing Monday 10 March, Queenslanders have just one month to nominate their favourite town through the QTIC website at  https://www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-town-awards/.

Last year, 25 towns and 9 tour guides were nominated for the Awards, with Roma, Airlie Beach, and Winton taking out Top Tourism Town, Top Small Tourism Town, and Top Tiny Tourism Town respectively, and Adam Hinks from Magnetic Island’s Aquascene taking home the state’s highest accolade for a tour guide.

State winners will go on to represent Queensland at the national awards held later in the year. Where they have the chance to be crowned one of Australia’s Top Tourism Towns or Australia’s Top Tour Guide.

Queensland’s three Top Tourism Towns and Top Tour Guide will be announced in June at an awards ceremony in Brisbane.

– ENDS –