With its resort-like lagoons, warm sunny weather and gateway to the majestic Great Barrier Reef, it’s no surprise Cairns has been crowned the number one town in Australia.
Travel website Wotif has announced the top 10 winners of the 2021 Aussie Town of the Year Awards based on their accommodation quality, affordability, traveller satisfaction and appealing activities and attractions.
While the idyllic city in tropical Far North Queensland took out the top spot, New South Wales dominated the list with the likes of Pokolbin, Mudgee, Port Macquarie and The Entrance.
Victoria’s Apollo Bay and Lakes Entrance were named among the winning destinations, along with South Australia’s McLaren Vale, Queensland’s Hervey Bay and Western Australia’s Exmouth.
1. Cairns, Queensland: Cairns has been crowned the number one town in Australia of 2021
2. Pokolbin, New South Wales: If it’s indulgence and relaxation you’re after, then the rolling hills and picturesque vistas of Pokolbin is the ideal setting for some R&R
With such a diverse mix of experiences and attractions in Australia, this year’s top destinations highlight the travel possibilities available in one’s own backyard.
Following an incredibly challenging year for the Tropical North Queensland tourism community, Cairns has been voted as the standout destination.
‘Not only is it the gateway to one of Australia’s most treasured natural beauties – the Great Barrier Reef, but the city itself offers the ideal laid-back tropical lifestyle,’ Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said.
3. Apollo Bay, Victoria: Surrounded by endless beaches, walking trails and the Great Otway National Park, Apollo Bay is a top place to base yourself while exploring the Great Ocean Road
4. Mudgee, New South Wales: It’s known as one of the country’s finest wine towns in Australia
5. Lakes Entrance, Victoria: Spend your day kayaking, fishing, swimming or go on an unforgettable 60 minute camel ride along the stunning 90 Mile Beach
6. McLaren Vale, South Australia: The town is known for its cheesemaking, wine blending, a Shiraz trail, and more than 70 cellar doors
‘To think that this humble city, which does so much for Australian tourism on an international scale suffered a loss of more than $50 million a week during the height of COVID-19 is incomprehensible.
‘With an average nightly accommodation rate of $155 in 2020, it’s time Aussies consider visiting this incredible part of Australia that people from all over the world come to see.’
Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said the the city was excited to have Cairns tale out first prize.
‘Here in the state’s tropical north we have been fortunate to have very few cases of COVID-19 allowing us to move about more freely,’ he said.
‘However, the economic impact of closed borders has decimated our economy which relies on tourism. Australians are desperate for a holiday and Cairns is the ideal destination.’
7. Hervey Bay, Queensland: Visit Hervey Bay for its reliable sunshine, whale watching, incredible diving experiences and Fraser Island, just a short ferry away
8. Exmouth, Western Australia: Head to the Ningaloo Lighthouse Holiday Park and you’ll find breathtaking views
9. Port Macquarie, New South Wales: Home to some of the best beaches, excellent eateries and plenty of surrounding adventure – Port Macquarie is always an excellent choice
10. The Entrance, New South Wales: A relaxing family favourite on the Central Coast, where the lake meets ocean, this town has plenty of water activities, from fishing, hiring a boat or exploring one of the many local beaches on offer
With so many places to visit, where to travel next in Australia is one decision every Australian can look forward to making.
‘While the last 12 months have been less than ideal, this time has given Aussies the chance to re-valuate how they live, work and play – a change of perspective that many now appreciate,’ Mr Finch said.
‘While an overseas getaway will always have its purpose and appeal, many Aussies do not realise the unique opportunity they have in front of them – to take advantage of having this enormous playground called Australia, all to themselves.
‘Be it in Tropical North Queensland or along The Great Ocean Road, as the summer season for many regions begins to subside, now is the time Aussie travellers need to make a conscious decision to holiday here this year.
‘With the overall loss to Australian tourism due to COVID-19 now totalling over $59 billion, there is a huge job ahead to get the industry back on its feet.’