The national recognition came at the 2026 Australia's Top Tourism Town Awards in Canberra this morning, where a team of Campaspe Shire delegates were at Parliament House to pick up the prize.
Echuca finished third in the Top Tourism Town award, behind Queensland’s Stanthorpe and Kiama, NSW, beating out three other towns in a strong field.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Daniel Mackrell said the award was a celebration of the entire town and would lift its profile nationally.
“To be recognised as one of Australia's leading tourism destinations is an incredible honour and a proud moment for our community,” Cr Mackrell said.
“This award reflects the passion, dedication and collaboration of our tourism operators, accommodation providers, local businesses, event organisers, volunteers and community groups who help make Echuca such a special place to visit.
“(The) recognition places Echuca among the very best tourism destinations in the country and provides valuable exposure for our region.”
Murray River Tourism chief executive Cameron Sutton said it demonstrated what was possible when council and industry worked together.
“(This award) shows what can be achieved when council and industry are pulling in the same direction, with a shared focus on the visitor and creating a great experience from the moment they arrive,” he said.
“For the Murray, it is wonderful to see one of our towns representing the region on a national stage and putting the spotlight on what makes Echuca Moama and the wider Murray such a great place to visit.”
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