Local Tourism Operators Shine at State Awards

Ararat Rural City Council is celebrating the success of two local tourism operators recognised at the recent Victorian Tourism Industry Council awards. 

Nook on the Hill has taken out Gold in the Self-Contained Accommodation category, while Mount William Station has been awarded Gold for 5 Star Accommodation, highlighting the quality of visitor experiences on offer across the Ararat region.​

These accolades place both businesses among Victoria’s leading tourism operators and reinforce the Ararat region’s reputation as a destination of choice for visitors seeking high-quality stays close to Gariwerd, the Grampians National Park, and surrounding attractions. 

Council acknowledges the hard work, creativity, and long-term investment by the operators and their teams, whose efforts are helping to grow local jobs and support the wider visitor economy.​

Ararat Rural City Council CEO, Dr Tim Harrison, congratulated the operators on their achievements and the recognition they have brought to the municipality. “What stands out here is the ambition of local people who back themselves, do the hard yards over many years, and in the process lift the profile of our whole region,” Dr Harrison said. 

“Council’s focus is on creating the conditions where businesses like Nook on the Hill and Mount William Station can keep investing, innovating, and attracting visitors who want to stay longer, spend locally, and come back again.”​

Council encourages residents to share the news of these awards with friends and family and to continue supporting local tourism businesses through overnight stays, local dining, events, and experiences.