Coffs Harbour has been named the best Australian town to visit in 2020 by online travel site Wotif.
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It's one of three NSW towns to make the top 10 list, which is based on a data index that recognises Australian destinations offering good affordability, well-rated accommodation and increasing traveller interest over the last twelve months on Wotif.com.
The announcement comes at a particularly significant time for Australian tourism, with new research revealing that one in three Aussies say they've "fallen back in love with travelling in Australia" in the aftermath of the summer bushfires and ongoing drought.
The research shows a resurgence in domestic travel, with 41 per cent of Aussies committed to travelling more in Australia this year compared to 2019.
An overwhelming number of Aussie travellers say they are keen to show their support by travelling to areas both directly and indirectly affected by the bushfires, with 12.6 million Australians (91 per cent of those who travel on holidays) saying they are likely to either amend or continue their holiday plans to ensure they support the local tourism industry. This includes one-in-three (32 per cent) who are likely to plan an additional trip to a bushfire-affected region.
Wotif Managing Director Daniel Finch says: "During what is an incredibly tough time for many parts of the country, this year's awards are more relevant than ever, as a way of recognising the hard-working tourism operators and local businesses who make up Australian tourism - the driving force behind many regional communities. We know that Aussies are a resilient bunch and it's fantastic to see this overwhelming sense of pride for all the country has to offer.
"Australians are spoiled for choice in Australia and our annual Aussie Town of the Year initiative is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the many towns, cities and regions worthy of the spotlight. Tourism is vital to many regional communities, with a record $77.5 billion spent on domestic travel last year, meaning Aussies have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact by choosing to holiday here this year. Whether it's a weekend getaway or a week-long escape, 2020 is the year to discover your own backyard and book a getaway that gives back."
Wotif 2020 Aussie Town of the Year awards
- Coffs Harbour, NSW: Bananas aside, there's something for everyone in Coffs. From intimate beaches to untamed rainforests and perched halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, Coffs Harbour is NSW's very own paradise of attractions.
- Mackay, QLD: The inaugural winner of Wotif's Aussie Town of the Year awards in 2018, the historic town of Mackay is firmly on the radar for travelling Aussies. Located at the centre of the Queensland coast, Mackay boasts lush subtropical rainforests, national parks and a thriving public arts scene.
- Airlie Beach, QLD: Known as the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, Airlie Beach is an aquatic playground offering stunning views by day and a bustling, vibrant nightlife.
- Batemans Bay, NSW: Named in 1770 by Australian explorer Captain James Cook, Batemans Bay is located in the heart of the Oyster Coast; offering fresh local seafood and a great base for exploring the wonders and natural beauty on the NSW South Coast.
- Cairns, QLD: Famed for its access to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest, these world-heritage sites stamp Cairns on the map as Australia's nature capital with some serious adventure game.
- Port Fairy, VIC: Delivering old world charm with a modern twist, Port Fairy sits on the doorstep of the famed Great Ocean Road, boasting a rich history, excellent restaurants and a charming seaside community.
- Albany, WA: As close as you'll get to a historic European city in WA, Albany is the western state's oldest European settlement with a rich history and fantastic family appeal.
- Katoomba, NSW: Oh hey (three) sisters! A vibrant and historic town at the heart of the Blue Mountains, Katoomba spoils its guests with spectacular walks and lookouts, rich cultural heritage and great restaurants and bars.
- Margaret River, WA: You had me at Cab Sav. The Margaret River region is known globally for its wine, beaches and sense of adventure, all tucked away in Australia's south-west corner.
- Maroochydore, QLD: With its funky cafes, multicultural cuisine and thriving live music scene - Maroochydore is the cultural capital of the Sunshine Coast where you can enjoy an ocean dip during the day and a cocktail at night.
