General News
30 July, 2025
Halls Gap is Victoria’s (second) top tourism town
HALLS Gap has missed out on the crown as Victoria’s top tiny tourism town, but locals shouldn’t feel too disappointed.
Tourism Victoria this week announced the winners and runners up in their Top Tourism Town Awards.
Warrnambool was named Victorian Top Tourism Town (population 5,000+) while Mount Beauty won the Top Small Tourism Town Award (population 1,500-5,000) and Trentham took home the Top Tiny Tourism Town Award (population under 1,500).
But while not taking top honours, Halls Gap should feel proud to have claimed the silver award in the tiny towns category, beating Dunkeld, Flinders, Marlo, Natimuk and Noojee.
The awards, run by VTIC, celebrate towns across the state that provide outstanding visitor experiences, with 25 finalists vying for the awards this year.
The awards ceremony is part of VTIC’s Victorian Tourism Summit with winners announced at an event attended by tourism industry figures and held on Wednesday at Shepparton’s Museum of Vehicle Evolution (MOVE).
Acting VTIC Chief Executive Chris Porter said this year’s awards showcased the strength and diversity of offerings of regional destinations across Victoria.
“A theme we have seen this year is that many of the winners are located further out of Melbourne, with destinations showcasing why visitors should travel to enjoy the delights that the winning Top Tourism Towns have to offer.
“The winners are a reflection of the quality visitor experiences that can be found in all parts of the state, with visitors more likely to stay for at least one night, rather than just the day, due to their fantastic offering.
“Being named Victoria’s Top Tourism Town strengthens a town’s profile, fosters a vibrant local economy and positions it as a leader in regional tourism,” he said.
Northern Grampians Shire mayor Karen Hyslop said Halls Gap is worthy of high recognition.
“We are thrilled to have Halls Gap named a finalist in these awards, which recognise towns that offer exceptional visitor experiences and demonstrate a strong commitment to tourism, local community and storytelling,” she said.
“Halls Gap’s recognition reflects the passion of our community and the unique natural beauty of our region,” Cr Hyslop said.
“Halls Gap might be small in size, but its visitor appeal is enormous.
From the breathtaking landscapes of Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park to wildlife encounters, boutique accommodation, local eateries, and a strong connection to culture and community.”
“Halls Gap is a destination that brings together nature lovers, adventurers, families and foodies alike, whether for a weekend retreat or an active holiday immersed in the outdoors,” she said.
Member for Western Victoria Jacinta Ermacora has congratulated Halls Gap for its recognition as a top tourist location.
“We all know and appreciate how special the Grampians is and Halls Gap is indeed the jewel in the Grampians crown,” she said.
The three Victorian gold winners will go on to compete for the coveted title of Australia’s Top Tourism Town in their respective categories. This will be announced on the 3 September 2025 at Parliament House in Canberra.
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