Top team takes out top town trophy

The Augusta-Margaret River Tourism Association’s main visitor centre has taken out its second tourism gong in three years with a win at the GWN7 Top Tourism Award gala dinner last Friday night.

Accepted by acting chief executive Jayme Hatcher, the win recognised “the sheer quality and volume of tourism products and experiences” on offer at the centre, according to judge Robyn Fenech.

It was a neck-and-neck race with Dunsborough, with Busselton also defeated in the final contest.

“The judges were very impressed with all the finalists – it was a tough decision as there are so many amazing experiences throughout Western Australia and all the finalists put their best feet forward,” Ms Fenech said.

Ms Hatcher said the win was an honour and a thrill.

“The unique diversity of outstanding tourism product in the Margaret River region, combined with the AMRTA’s dynamic and proactive marketing approach and our high standard of visitor servicing made Margaret River a strong contender, and a thoroughly deserving winner of this accolade,” she said.

TV advertising valued at $25,000 was included in the prize package. The visitor centre will extend its reach to Perth next month with a “Tastes of Margaret River Region” exhibition at the Perth Royal Show.

Producers would feature handmade, locally grown produce for tasting and sales.