This underrated Tassie town was just crowned Australia's best!

Discover the unexpected gem that claimed Australia’s most coveted tourism title and find out what makes this town a must-visit destination.

Tasmania is filled with breathtaking destinations that leave an indelible impression on anyone who visits. One of these is the town that has just been crowned top honours at Australia’s Top Tourism Town Awards for 2024, recognising the best Australian towns with a population of over 5000 people.

The Top Tourism Town for 2024 is…

A charming port city in North West Tasmania that serves as a gateway to some of the island’s most stunning landscapes, Devonport is known for its picturesque waterfront along the Mersey River and offers a mix of coastal beauty, rich history and a laid-back atmosphere.

Walk up to Mersey Bluff Lighthouse. (Image: S. Group)

Visitors can explore the town’s maritime heritage at the Bass Strait Maritime Centre, enjoy outdoor adventures in the nearby Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park, or relax at the serene Coles Beach.

With its vibrant arts scene, local markets and fresh Tasmanian produce, Devonport has quietly earned its place as a top tourism destination, offering a unique blend of nature and culture.

Devonport has quietly earned its place as Australia’s Top Tourism Town. (Image: S. Group)

The runners-up

Taking out the silver medal is Bendigo in Victoria’s Goldfields, shining the spotlight on the town’s rich gold rush history and vibrant cultural scene. Known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic Bendigo Art Gallery and Sacred Heart Cathedral, this regional gem has evolved into a hub for art, heritage and culinary experiences.

Bendigo took out the silver medal.

Rounding out the top three is Roma in south west Queensland, celebrated for its outback charm and strong connection to Australia’s pioneering past. Famous for its cattle industry and the Big Rig Oil and Gas Museum, Roma offers visitors a taste of the country’s rural heartland, making it a unique and authentic destination.

Visit the Big Rig Oil and Gas Museum in Roma. (Image: Tourism and Events Queensland)

The 2024 Small Tourism Towns

While the main category focuses on towns with over 5000 people, the Small Tourism Town awards recognise Australian towns with a population between 1500 and 5000.

Exmouth on Western Australia’s Coral Coast took out first place in the Small Tourism Town awards, recognised for its stunning coastal landscapes and proximity to the World Heritage-listed Ningaloo Reef. This adventure-filled town offers a gateway to incredible marine life, including the chance to swim with whale sharks and boasts spectacular natural beauty from the Cape Range National Park to its pristine beaches.

Exmouth is the top small tourism town for 2024. (Image: Tourism Western Australia)

Daylesford in Victoria secured second place, famous for its natural mineral springs, spa retreats and vibrant arts scene, making it the perfect destination for relaxation and wellness.

Daylesford is the perfect destination for relaxation and wellness.

In third place, Richmond in southern Tassie charmed visitors with its rich history, iconic sandstone bridge and beautifully preserved Georgian architecture, offering a glimpse into Tasmania’s past with a modern touch of warmth and hospitality.

Step back in time in Richmond. (Image: Tourism Tasmania and Brian Dullaghan)

The 2024 Tiny Tourism Towns

The smallest category at the awards, the Tiny Tourism Town recognises the best Australian towns with a population of under 1500 people.

Huskisson on the NSW South Coast claimed the top spot in Australia’s Tiny Tourism Town awards, renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life along the shores of Jervis Bay. This coastal town invites visitors to experience everything from dolphin and whale watching to exploring the surrounding natural beauty of Booderee National Park.

Huskisson is renowned for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. (Image: Destination NSW)

A third Tasmanian destination, Stanley took second place, impressing with its picturesque setting at the base of The Nut, an ancient volcanic plug offering panoramic views of the rugged coast. Its rich history and quaint village atmosphere make it a standout destination.

Stanley came in second place at the 2024 Tiny Tourism Town Awards. (Image: Lusy Productions)

Rounding out the top three, Gundaroo in the ACT captivated visitors with its blend of rural charm and heritage-listed buildings. Known for its exceptional local produce and boutique wineries, this small town offers an authentic country experience just a short drive from Canberra.