Kiama (ab0ve) has claimed Hall of Fame status in the 2026 NSW Top Tourism Town Awards after securing its third consecutive Gold win.
The victory cements the South Coast town’s reputation as one of the state’s most outstanding visitor destinations.
The awards were presented at the Local Government NSW Destination and Visitor Economy Conference in Maitland, recognising regional destinations across three population categories alongside a People’s Choice Award voted by visitors.
Natalie Godward, NSW Tourism Association CEO, said the awards celebrated the depth and diversity of regional tourism across the state.
“These awards shine a spotlight on the amazing towns and communities that make regional NSW so memorable. There’s never been a better time to get out, hit the road, support local businesses and discover the incredible experiences right across our state,” Ms Godward said.
In the Top Tourism Town category for populations over 5,000, Kiama took Gold, Orange claimed Silver and Wollongong took Bronze. Orange also won the NRMA People’s Choice Award.
In the Small Tourism Town category for populations between 1,500 and 5,000, Gulgong won Gold, Gloucester took Silver and Thirlmere claimed Bronze. Shoal Bay won the People’s Choice Award.
In the Tiny Tourism Town category for populations below 1,500, Broke took Gold, Millthorpe won Silver and Mungindi claimed Bronze. Millthorpe also won the People’s Choice Award.
Kiama’s Hall of Fame achievement follows Huskisson (above), which achieved the same status in 2025 after three consecutive Gold wins in the Tiny Tourism Town category.
All Gold-winning towns will go on to represent New South Wales at the Australian Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra later this year.
