A popular family holiday spot and one of Australia's most iconic destinations have been recognised in Queensland Tourism Industry Council's (QTIC) Top Tourism Town Awards.
QTIC has named Noosa on the Sunshine Coast as the winner of the Top Tourism Town Award, and Agnes Water, north of Bundaberg, as the Top Small Tourism Town.
Sun, sea breeze, and a relaxed vibe is a big part of the charm of Agnes Water, and it is the reason locals are not surprised the tiny coastal town has taken out the award.
Surf school manager Angie Parker said Agnes Water had made a name for itself as a family-friendly holiday destination with a no-fuss attitude.
"It's pretty relaxed, that's part of the authentic nature of it here," she said.
Ms Parker said ideal weather and year-round waves contributed to a strong surf culture, and the town was also on the cusp of the Southern Great Barrier reef.
"The thing about Agnes is it's really consistent, good waves for learning," Ms Parker said.
"It's got your surf, and then you can get to the reef from Agnes Water. It's quite an untouched part of the reef compared to up north."
Thousands vote for tourism awards
Thirty thousand people cast their votes to decide what QTIC chief executive Daniel Gschwind said was a hotly contested competition.
"It was a very tight competition and only a few votes in the end separated the towns," Mr Gschwind said.
He said it was clear voters were drawn to travel destinations with spirit, culture, and authentic experiences.
"Just the feel of the town is really what people are looking for, and COVID has put a real emphasis on that trend," Mr Gschwind said.
COVID drives more tourists
Ms Parker said there has been a boom in tourists which she contributed to the COVID-19 pandemic and international travel bans.
"I think that it's been, in the last ten months, a lot of people have discovered Agnes Water," she said.
Noosa will receive a $25,000 strategic consulting and capacity building package, and Agnes Water will receive a $7,500 tourism consultancy and development package as winners of the awards.
