Wollondilly Council is very happy to announce that Picton and Surrounds have taken home the 'Judges Commendation Award' for the Top Tourism Town Awards 2023, against some pretty tough competition. 

The NSW Top Tourism Town Awards are a prestigious opportunity for local government areas to showcase their region and nominate a top town.

Mayor Matt Gould said, “Thank you to everyone who took the time to vote. It is exciting to be recognised as a great place to visit and to showcase some of the unique locations and attractions we have on offer here in the Wollondilly Shire, which is truly one of the hidden gems of NSW.”

“After some very challenging years for the Shire including bushfire, floods and the pandemic we hope our acknowledgement at these awards, up against some major cities including Newcastle and Wollongong, will help create more awareness of our beautiful area, grow visitation to the region and support our local economy.”

“Thank you also to our local tourism groups and Council’s amazing tourism team for all their hard work in promoting Picton as an emerging visitation hotspot.”

Picton & Surrounds was entered in the ‘Over 5000 residents’ category and was a finalist against Bathurst, Coffs Harbour, Dubbo, Lake Macquarie, Moama, Newcastle, Oberon, Shellharbour, South West Rocks, Ulladulla, Wollongong and Yamba.

The entry process included providing a four-day/three-night itinerary, a video and a written submission, as well as the public vote. The award not only recognised how fantastic Picton and Surrounds are as a place to visit, but also recognised the great success of the Love the Dilly Tourism campaign.

The winner of the award was Newcastle, with Ulladulla coming in with the Silver and Wollongong receiving the Bronze award. Picton received the Judges’ Commendation at the Local Government NSW Destination & Visitor Economy Conference.

Picton and surrounds are the heart of the Wollondilly Shire and well placed to welcome more visitors in the coming years; only one hour’s drive from Sydney and in close proximity to the Illawarra, Macarthur and Southern Highlands.