Northern Rivers Rail Trail wins top honours at North Coast Tourism Awards
8 August 2024
Tweed Shire Council takes Gold in Outstanding Tourism Start-Up and Bronze in Excellence in Innovation
The Northern Rivers Rail Trail (NRRT) is thrilled to announce that the Tweed section has been awarded the Gold Award in the Outstanding Tourism Start-Up category at the prestigious North Coast Tourism Awards and the Tweed Regional Museum received Bronze for Excellence in Innovation.
The awards, presented in partnership with Business NSW and Destination North Coast, celebrated excellence in the tourism industry at the Gala Dinner held at Sails Port Macquarie by Rydges on Thursday 1 August 2024.
Nicole Manderson, Program Leader – Destination and Industry Development was in attendance. “The North Coast Tourism Awards Gala Event is an opportunity to recognise the achievements of North Coast tourism operators by celebrating the outstanding contributions of businesses to the region’s vibrant visitor economy.”
“This year’s event brought together business leaders and tourism professionals to honour the exceptional efforts and successes within the industry.”
“Winning the Gold Award in the Outstanding Tourism Start-Up category is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the community support we have received.”
“We are so proud to contribute to the North Coast’s tourism landscape and look forward to continuing to provide unique and memorable experiences for our visitors,” Nicole said.
The recognition of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail’s Tweed section highlights the innovative and impactful contribution it has made to the region’s tourism offering. The Rail Trail is fast becoming a ‘must-do’ visitor attraction in the region.
“This Tweed section project turned tourism product truly epitomises the saying it ‘takes a village.’ There are so many people who have played an integral role in getting the project to where it is today.
“A huge thanks to the NRRT Supporters for their vision and advocacy that the Councils are proudly bringing to life and the unwavering support from Rail Trails Australia. Thanks also to our licensed operators who collaborate with us and create exceptional guest experiences and to our tourism partners at the Tweed Tourism Company and Destination North Coast.
“And of course, to our trailblazers, volunteers, local villages, and guests who care for the rail trail and make it a friendly and welcoming trail for all.”
The competition was fierce, with Hirehood taking the Silver Award and Port Macquarie Distillery receiving the Bronze Award in the same category.
The success of the Northern Rivers Rail Trail was not an isolated achievement; other Tweed businesses also shone brightly on the night. For a full list of winners, please visit Destination North Coast.
Acknowledged on the night with a Bronze Award was the council’s very own Tweed Regional Museum for Excellence in Innovation. Congratulations to all the finalists and winners of the 2024 North Coast Tourism Awards. Your efforts and achievements play a crucial role in the growth and success of our region’s visitor economy.