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Wednesday, 21 October 2026

2026 NSW Tourism Awards: Discover the Cultural Treasures of New South Wales

Newcastle Art Gallery

New South Wales is rich in Aboriginal heritage, regional history, art, museums and distinctive cultural experiences, and the 2026 NSW Tourism Awards are recognising tourism organisations helping visitors discover these stories.

The Cultural Tourism finalists represent destinations across the state, from Newcastle and the North Coast to Southern NSW and the Country and Outback region. Their attractions invite travellers to explore the people, traditions, creativity and history that have shaped communities throughout NSW.

Discover Art and Creativity in Newcastle

City of Newcastle Art Gallery is among the finalists, representing Sydney Surrounds North.

Newcastle Art Gallery is an important cultural attraction for visitors exploring the Hunter and Newcastle region. Its exhibitions and collections provide opportunities to discover Australian art, encounter creative ideas and learn about the artists whose work contributes to the country's cultural identity.

For travellers planning a Newcastle getaway, the city's galleries, heritage buildings, waterfront and dining experiences offer plenty of reasons to extend a visit beyond the day trip.

Explore the Cultural Heritage of the North Coast

Port Macquarie Museum

The North Coast has a strong presence in the 2026 NSW Tourism Awards Cultural Tourism category, with Clarence Valley Council, Port Macquarie Museum, Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head and Yarrila Arts and Museum named finalists.

The Clarence Valley offers visitors opportunities to discover regional heritage, historic townships and the cultural character of communities along the Clarence River.

Port Macquarie Museum provides a window into the region's past, helping visitors understand the people, industries and events that have shaped this coastal destination.

Yarrila Arts and Museum in Coffs Harbour combines artistic and cultural experiences, giving visitors another reason to explore the city's creative attractions.

At Fingal Head, Tweed Holiday Parks provides a base for exploring a coastal area known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. Visitors can combine a seaside holiday with opportunities to learn about the area's heritage and local environment.

Connect with Aboriginal Culture in Southern NSW

Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council

Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council, representing Southern NSW, is a finalist in the Cultural Tourism category.

Aboriginal cultural heritage is an essential part of understanding Australia's history, landscapes and continuing traditions. Visitors exploring the Eden and Sapphire Coast region can deepen their appreciation of Country and the enduring connections between Aboriginal communities and the land and sea.

Respectful cultural tourism can help share knowledge, recognise Aboriginal perspectives and support greater understanding of the world's oldest continuing living cultures.

Discover Country Life and Traditional Craftsmanship

Nundle Woollen Mill

The Country and Outback region is represented by Nundle Woollen Mill and Old Dubbo Gaol - Dubbo Regional Council.

Nundle Woollen Mill offers visitors an opportunity to discover the heritage of wool production and textile manufacturing. Located in the historic village of Nundle, it connects regional tourism with the story of Australian wool and traditional craftsmanship.

Old Dubbo Gaol provides a different historical experience, taking visitors into the story of a former prison and the lives of people connected with its history. The attraction is a distinctive stop for travellers exploring Dubbo and the wider Central West.

2026 NSW Tourism Awards Cultural Tourism Finalists

The finalists in the Cultural Tourism category are:

City of Newcastle - Newcastle Art Gallery — Sydney Surrounds North
Clarence Valley Council — North Coast
Eden Local Aboriginal Land Council — Southern NSW
Nundle Woollen Mill — Country and Outback
Old Dubbo Gaol - Dubbo Regional Council — Country and Outback
Port Macquarie Museum — North Coast
Tweed Holiday Parks Fingal Head — North Coast
Yarrila Arts and Museum — North Coast

Celebrating Cultural Tourism Across NSW

Old Dubbo Gaol

The 2026 NSW Tourism Awards recognise tourism businesses and organisations that contribute to memorable visitor experiences and the strength of the NSW visitor economy.

The Cultural Tourism finalists showcase the diversity of experiences available throughout the state, encouraging travellers to discover art, Aboriginal heritage, museums, historic attractions and regional traditions.

The 2026 NSW Tourism Awards will be held at ICC Sydney on Monday 9 November 2026, celebrating tourism excellence and the organisations helping visitors connect with the stories behind NSW destinations.

NSW Tourism Association

Website: https://www.nswtourism.com.au/
Address: New South Wales, Australia.

Destination NSW

Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/
Address: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.

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