Noosa, the 2021 Queensland Top Tourism Town Award winner, has a golden opportunity to add another prestigious title to its collection as nominations for the 2026 Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards officially opened this week.
The coastal paradise captured hearts and judges alike five years ago with its “captivating charm” and “harmonious blend of unspoiled nature, chic style, dining hotspots and carefree luxury.”
Now, with tourism booming and new attractions enhancing the destination’s appeal, Noosa is primed for another championship run.
Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC) launched the 2026 awards program on Monday, with nominations remaining open until 9 March.
The awards celebrate destinations that demonstrate excellence in tourism experiences, community engagement, and visitor satisfaction across multiple categories including Top Tourism Town, Top Small Tourism Town, and Top Tiny Tourism Town.
Local tourism operators, councils, and visitor information centres can nominate destinations, with QTIC encouraging nominees to collaborate with Regional Tourism Organisations and committed local operator groups.
For Noosa, this presents an ideal opportunity to showcase the destination’s continued evolution and tourism excellence.
“The Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards are a celebration of the destinations that make Queensland special,” according to QTIC.
Past winners have demonstrated exceptional commitment to visitor experiences, community pride, and tourism innovation.
After nominations close in March, detailed submissions are due April 10, followed by finalist announcements on May 8.
A unique public voting component runs from May 11-24, allowing Queenslanders to vote for their favourite destinations.
Winners will be announced at the QTIC Queensland Top Tourism Town Awards ceremony on 17 June, with state winners progressing to national competition on 15 September.
Recent winners demonstrate the calibre of competition Noosa would face. Bowen claimed 2025’s top honour, while Caloundra won in 2023 and Tamborine Mountain in 2022.
Tourism operators and community leaders interested in supporting a Noosa nomination can access resources and nomination details at the official QTIC website at www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-town-awards/
