Bendigo has won silver in the prestigious 2026 Top Tourism Town Awards, with the honours announced at a ceremony last night.
The state award recognises and celebrates towns with a population of more than 5,000 that provide outstanding visitor experiences.
Submissions were assessed based on a written itinerary, a video showcasing the region, online user reviews of key attractions and a Bendigo editorial feature.
The awards, coordinated by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council, also gave the public the opportunity to vote for their favourite Victorian destinations, with votes contributing to the final scores.
The City of Greater Bendigo's submission captured a four-day weekend of ‘Expect the Unexpected’ for the millennials market. The itinerary showcased the best of Bendigo's arts and culture, heritage attractions, and culinary specialities as Australia's first UNESCO Creative City and Region of Gastronomy.
The itinerary featured immersive experiences, including descending Central Deborah Gold Mine, Golden Dragon Museum, travelling on a vintage tram, taking a city centre walking tour with Djaara guides, visiting the Botanic Gardens and Bendigo Pottery, and joining a Discover Bendigo Guided Tour. Meal and accommodation recommendations, along with local tips for visitors, completed the four-day itinerary.
Mayor Cr Thomas Prince said the Victorian award acknowledged Greater Bendigo's outstanding visitor experiences.
"It is a wonderful endorsement of everyone who contributes to our strong reputation as a must-see destination, and I thank everyone who voted for Bendigo," Cr Prince said.
"These awards are a testament to our passionate and hardworking tourism industry, as well as City of Greater Bendigo staff who help ensure Bendigo remains a leading visitor destination and always looks its very best.
"Our attractions, accommodation, retail and hospitality providers welcome visitors wholeheartedly and are proud to offer unique experiences and exceptional customer service for tourists of all ages and interests.
"We know that once visitors come here, they fall in love with our beautiful city because it offers connection, inspiration and cultural enrichment, with something different and memorable on every visit.
"Our visitor experiences are highly regarded, but it is especially rewarding to see that reflected through visitor reviews and the public vote."
This is the sixth year that Bendigo has been named a finalist in the Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards. Bendigo has won two golds, and this is the third silver.