Echuca featured on a list headed by Albury and that included the likes of Bundaberg, Port Lincoln, Ballarat, Merimbula and Orange.
Now in its sixth year, the Wotif Town of the Year Awards recognises trending Australian destinations for the year ahead and is based on a Wotif data index that looks at accommodation affordability, quality and traveller satisfaction.
Echuca Moama Tourism chair Dean Oberin said it was a great result to be included with the other towns in the list.
“Echuca is very rich in experiences, with everything from walking tracks, bike tours, fine dining and boats on the river,” Mr Oberin said.
“It is a great spot to get away and have some very cool experiences.
“We are very proud to be part of the Wotif top 10 Aussie towns and have people wanting to come and visit Echuca all the time.”
One of the businesses that benefits from Wotif putting Echuca inside the top 10 Aussie towns is Clocktower Suites.
Owner Brandon Harpley uses Wotif for last-minute and multiple-night-stay deals.
“Things like our cancellation policy are attractive to people because when things change at the last minute, people want to be careful when they are booking,” he said.
“They are not going to be out of pocket if something goes wrong.
“That is one of our biggest drawcards, is making sure they are protected.”
Inspired by the grandeur of the building, Clocktower Suites has many visitors stay specifically to go on a paddlesteamer.
“They are going on a cruise on the Emmylou and like to stay on dry land for a couple of nights before venturing off,” Mr Harpley said.
“They want to come and experience what it is like on the inside and something a bit different to an everyday motel.
“Every room we have is completely unique to the next, so it is an interesting experience for guests.”
Trends show Australian travellers are carving out their own long weekends on the calendar, opting for shorter and more frequent domestic trips.
“By all accounts, Aussies remain committed to travelling locally in 2023,” Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said.
“While cost considerations are top of mind for everyone this year, it’s clear travellers are not deterred and instead are prioritising accessible, experience-rich getaways.
“We know 29 per cent of Aussies are open to travelling to new destinations this year to keep costs down.
“We hope by spotlighting these deserving destinations, all of which are extremely accessible, the awards inspire Aussies to explore and connect with regional destinations beyond the typical tried and tested.”
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