Echuca has been selected as a finalist for Top Tourism Town over 5000 population in the 2026 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards, entering with strong momentum from a previous near win.
The Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards showcase the value tourism brings to towns across Victoria, celebrating diverse and outstanding regional communities.
Echuca hosts spectacular events throughout the year which each draw massive crowds, including the wildly popular UteZ WB Run, which transformed the town's streets this past weekend.
Other annual events, including Winter Blues Festival, Country Music Festival, Riverboats Music Festival, attract thousands of visitors annually, injecting millions of dollars into the local economy, according to the 2026 Campaspe Shire Festival and Events strategy.
The steady rise in tourism attractions has contributed to Echuca being recognised in this award category in the past.
Echuca claimed bronze in 2025’s awards — losing only to Warrnambool and Ballarat, which placed first and second, respectively — making the town of paddle steamers the third most popular tourist town in the state.
This year, Echuca is up against some hot contenders, including Ballarat, Bendigo, Mildura, Ocean Grove and Swan Hill.
Rochester is also listed as a finalist, in the Top Small Tourism Town category.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell said it was a proud moment for the region.
“It reflects the incredible work of our tourism operators, local businesses and volunteers who help make Campaspe such a welcoming and vibrant place to visit,” he said.
He urged everyone to get behind their towns and participate in the public vote, which plays a large role in determining the final results.
“We know how special our region is, and this is a great opportunity to share that knowledge far and wide,” he said.
“Every vote counts, so I encourage everyone to support Echuca and Rochester and help us bring home a top result.”
The Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards ceremony will take place on Wednesday, August 12 at the Morwell Convention and Reception Centre.
Voting will close on Friday, June 26 at 5pm.
Every voter will be automatically entered into a competition to win a luxurious Melbourne escape for two.
To cast your vote and help Rochester and Echuca on to the podium, visit vtic.com.au/toptourismtown
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