Ballarat was named as the overall winner (population more than 5000) at a glittering ceremony last Wednesday night.
Bendigo took the silver award and Frankston was awarded the bronze.
Looking through the other categories and Sorrento took the win for top small town (population 1500-5000).
Heathcote sealed the silver award and Woodend rounded out the podium placings.
Aireys Inlet claimed the gong as top tiny town (population less than 1500) from Red Hill South and Jamieson.
The awards, hosted by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), recognise and celebrate towns that provide an outstanding visitor experience.
Seventeen outstanding finalists were competing for the top awards in 2023.
VTIC chief executive officer Felicia Mariani said the awards showcased the diverse range of regional destinations in Victoria and the economic impact tourism brought to those towns.
“Tourism is the lifeblood of our regional towns and centres across Victoria and these awards celebrate the commitment of these destinations to delivering the very best experiences, ensuring they create magical memories for their visitors to cherish,” she said.
The three Victorian gold winners will now go on to compete for the coveted title of Australia’s Top Tourism Town in their respective categories, which will be announced on September 14 at Parliament House, Canberra.
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