BENDIGO institutions have won a slew of top tourism awards at an industry event held on Thursday after weathering six lockdowns since the pandemic's arrival.
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The city's wins at the Victorian Tourism Awards spanned wineries, a visitors centre and even an entire council.
The City of Greater Bendigo beat out Shepparton's council for the local government award for tourism.
Manager Tourism and Major Events Terry Karamaloudis said the city was thrilled to win gold in three out of four nominated categories.
"It is fantastic news to win in so many highly competitive categories with contenders from across Victoria," he said.
"This is wonderful recognition of how our staff and volunteers have been able to overcome the enormous challenges during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to create unique experiences and welcoming opportunities for visitors."
The Bendigo Visitor Centre won the visitor information services category for its innovative approach to its tasks.
A shop and gallery space housed within the centre also took out a top award.
Uniquely Bendigo and the Living Arts Space took out the tourism retail & hire services award.
Designed to compliment the Bendigo Visitor Centre, it showcases the unique qualities, products and art that the Bendigo region has to offer.
Balgownie Estate Bendigo won the unique accommodation category.
The awards were hosted by the Victoria Tourism Industry Council.
The group's chief executive Felicia Mariani said the awards showcase some of the most compelling businesses in Victorian tourism.
"This year's celebration feels especially meaningful. We not only look to reward operators for their business excellence, but we want to recognise and celebrate the innovation, resilience, and commitment they have exhibited to weather the storm of the past two years," she said.
"Operators in Victoria have encountered more obstacles in their businesses than any other state in the country, having to press pause and restart to accommodate six lockdowns and more than 260 days under restrictions during the pandemic.
"But in testament to the pure grit and determination of Victorians, our industry rose to the challenge and relished the opportunity to win Gold in Victoria, earning the right to compete with their counterparts on the national stage at the 2021 Australian Tourism Awards."
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