A hidden Queensland gem, far from the beaches that make the state a holiday-maker’s favourite, has been named Australia’s top tourism town for 2026.

Stanthorpe, in Queensland’s Granite Belt, took out the gold award at the Australian Tourism Industry Council’s Top Tourism Town Awards when they were announced in Canberra on Tuesday night.

“Stanthorpe has earned its place as Australia’s Top Tourism Town for 2026, bringing together outstanding visitor experiences with a strong sense of local character and a community that understands what it takes to create an exceptional visitor experience,” ATIC chief executive Erin McLeod said.

“Our regional towns are central to the way visitors experience Australia. They encourage people to travel beyond our major cities, discover new destinations and experience the landscapes, people, produce and stories that make different parts of our country unique.”

Stanthorpe is in the Darling Downs region, about 240 kilometres away from a beach and 2½ hours south-west of Brisbane.

It is about 800 metres above sea level, meaning it has a climate far removed from the tropical sun that Queensland is most famous for. Instead it has crisp winters, and sometimes even gets snow.

The region is the state’s main apple grower, while other crops include berries and stone fruit. There are local farm gates, cheese makers, craft breweries and wineries.

The spectacular Sentimental Rocks is a favourite walking spot near Stanthorpe. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

The area is also famous for Girraween National Park, which is a visual feast of granite boulders and stone monoliths with extensive walking tracks.

“What an incredible result for Stanthorpe, the Granite Belt and our entire Southern Downs region,” local councillor Joel Richters wrote on social media.

“This belongs to the tourism operators, accommodation providers, wineries, growers, cafes, restaurants, retailers, event organisers and locals who make visitors feel welcome every single day.

“We know how special this part of the world is. Now Australia knows it too.”

Swimming in a rock pool at Kiama, on the NSW South Coast. Photo: AAP

Kiama, which is on the NSW coast about 90 minutes south of Sydney, took out the silver title. It was the third consecutive year the town had made the national finals.

“Even though we didn’t take home the national award, this is still a proud moment for our community to finish runner-up and return home with the silver medal,” local mayor Cameron McDonald said.

“While many visitors might come for the famous blowhole, they quickly discover there is so much more to Kiama.

“Our coastline, villages, food, events, local businesses and welcoming community all play a part in creating memorable experiences.

Echuca is on the southern side of the Murray River.

Echuca, on the Victorian side of the Murray River won the bronze. Local mayor Daniel Mackrell said the national title was a tremendous achievement.

“This recognition places Echuca among the very best tourism destinations in the country and provides valuable exposure for our region,” he said.

“Visitors are increasingly looking for authentic regional experiences, and this award highlights the exceptional experiences available here on the Murray.”

National finalists were determined from gold winners from each state and territory. The awards are presented in four categories – Top Tourism Town (population over 5000), Small Tourism Town (population between 1500-5000), Tiny Tourism Town (population under 1500) and Top Tour Guide.

Airlie Beach is basking in the national small town title. Photo: Tourism and Events Queensland

Other winners

The small tourism town title also went to a Queensland destination – Whitsundays’ resort town Airlie Beach.

Portsea, on Victoria’s Mornington Peninsula took gold in the tiny town category, while Laura Stone from Sydney by Kayak was named Australia’s Top Tour Guide for 2026.

“We are fortunate in Australia to have extraordinary stories and experiences in every corner of the country, especially in regional communities where nature, culture, heritage, local knowledge and people that create lasting memories for visitors,” federal Tourism and Trade Minister Don Farrell said.

“The towns nominated today showcase the breadth and diversity of our tourism offering and reward the visitors who choose to venture further and discover the regions that help make Australia so unique.”

Strolling along Portsea Beach. Photo: AAP

Tourism Australia managing director Robin Mack said regional tourism was a “vital pillar of the visitor economy”.

“It creates local businesses, delivers local jobs and supports thriving communities,” he said.

“Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards is a great celebration of regional Australia and the tour guides who deliver exceptional experiences, sharing their knowledge and passion in ways that can offer visitors a new perspective on a place and create lasting memories.”