Community
4 April, 2026
Thirlmere in running for tourism title
Residents across the region are being urged to throw their support behind Thirlmere as it vies for a top tourism award.
Residents across the region are being urged to throw their support behind Thirlmere as it vies for a top tourism award.
Thirlmere has been nominated for a NSW Top Tourism Town award in the small towns category (population 1500-5000).
It is up against Oberon, Gloucester, Gulgong and Shoal Bay.
Finalists will be announced on May 6 with the winner to be announced on May 27.
State category winners will then go on to compete in the Australian Top Tourism Town awards as part of a national program designed to celebrate “the best of the best”.
Towns nominated for the Top Tourism Town (population over 5000) include Ballina, Coffs Harbour, Forbes, Kiama, Moree, Orange, Shellharbour and Wollongong.
Broke, Millthorpe and Mungindi have been nominated in the tiny towns category (population less than 1500).
There will also be a People’s Choice award based on a public vote open until Sunday, May 3.
Robertson in the Southern Highlands took out second place in the small towns category last year as well as the People’s Choice award.
Thirlmere is well known for its rail museum and Festival of Steam but is establishing a rapidly growing reputation as a great place to enjoy nature, to eat and to enjoy farm gate experiences.
Given its proximity to Sydney it is considered an ideal location for a weekend getaway.
People wanting to vote for the People’s Choice award can do so via the NSW Tourism Association website at 2026 Top Tourism Town Voting
There is also a link on Wollondilly Shire Council’s website at www.wollondilly.nsw.gov.au
Read More: Thirlmere, Wollondilly