Campaspe Shire Council is celebrating a major tourism milestone, with both Echuca and Rochester named as finalists in the 2026 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards – and community members are invited to play their part in ensuring our towns get the recognition they deserve as premier destinations for visitors.
Echuca has secured a place in the Top Tourism Town category, while Rochester is a finalist in the Top Small Tourism Town category. Echuca enters this year's awards with strong momentum, having claimed bronze in 2025, making it the third most popular tourist town in the state. The town is now aiming to climb even higher on the podium in 2026, while Rochester hopes to make its debut.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell said the dual recognition was a proud moment for the region, and a chance for residents to help our towns secure wins in their categories.
"To see both Echuca and Rochester recognised as finalists in these prestigious awards is an awesome achievement for our community. 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," Cr Mackrell said.
"A key component of the awards is the public vote, which plays a significant role in determining the final results - and those towns that have their communities behind them in the voting often do very well. So, Council is encouraging everyone to take a few minutes to give the thumbs up to Echuca and Rochester."
The Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards celebrate the importance of tourism to communities across the state, recognising towns that deliver outstanding visitor experiences and demonstrate a strong commitment to growing visitation.
Awards are presented across three categories:
- Top Tourism Town – population over 5,000;
- Top Small Tourism Town – population between 1,500 and 5,000; and
- Top Tiny Tourism Town – population under 1,500.
Cr Mackrell urged residents and visitors alike to get behind both towns.
"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."
Voting opens on 29 May and will close on Friday 26 June at 5pm. To cast your vote and help Rochester and Echuca onto the podium, visit www.vtic.com.au/toptourismtown/
