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The spotlight is on the storytellers, nature whisperers and cultural custodians who bring New South Wales to life, as finalists for the inaugural NSW Top Tour Guide Award have just been announced.

Launched by the NSW Tourism Association, the new award celebrates the vital role tour guides play in delivering unforgettable experiences—from wildlife encounters and water adventures to Aboriginal culture and hidden city gems.

The eight standout finalists represent the diverse talent shaping the state’s visitor experience:

  • Tiga Cross – Coffs Coast Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Tom Cosgrove – Sydney Oyster Farm Tours
  • Rebecca Dunning – Stand Up Paddleboarding Shellharbour
  • Ben Butof – Activity Tours Australia
  • Justin Steele – Local Sauce Tours
  • Nathan Lygon – Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council
  • Amanda Fry – Experience Nature
  • Graham Chapman – Chapman Tours

The winners—Gold, Silver and Bronze—will be revealed on 4 June 2025 at a special NSW Tourism Association event during Vivid Sydney, held in partnership with Journey Beyond Cruise Sydney.

In a major boost for the guiding sector, the NSW Tourism Association has also partnered with Tour Guides Australia, the national body for accredited tour guides. All finalists will receive affiliate membership with Tour Guides Australia, while the top three will be awarded full professional accreditation.

“This kind of collaboration is exactly what our industry needs,” said Natalie Godward, CEO of NSW Tourism Association. “Smart, strategic alliances that help solve long-term workforce challenges while supporting high-quality visitor experiences.”

Greg Esnouf, President of Tour Guides Australia, echoed the sentiment: “Tour Guides are Australia’s frontline ambassadors… working closely with peak tourism bodies means we can build a sustainable guide workforce and promote one of the best jobs in the world.”

With a growing demand for skilled guides, the awards mark a major step forward in recognising and nurturing the talent behind some of NSW’s most memorable travel moments.

The NSW winner will go on to represent the state at the national Top Tour Guide Awards in Canberra later this year.

Read our interview with Justin Steele from Local Sauce Tours here.

For more information, visit www.nswtourismassociation.com.au.