Hughenden wins silver in Queensland’s ‘Top Tourism Town’ awards
Published on 18 June 2026
Hughenden has officially cemented its status as one of Queensland’s premier Outback tourism destinations, taking home Silver in the highly-competitive Top Tiny Tourism Town category at the 2026 Top Tourism Town Awards.
Presented by the Queensland Tourism Industry Council (QTIC), the annual awards celebrate outstanding regional destinations that demonstrate a strict commitment to delivering exceptional visitor experiences.
In a fresh twist for 2026, the awards ceremony was held remotely online for the first time, bringing tourism operators from across the state together to celebrate their shared achievements virtually.
The second-place finish marks a proud step up for Hughenden, which improved on its bronze-medal placing from 2025.
Competing against seven other remarkable small towns – including regional icons such as Birdsville, Cape Tribulation, Quilpie, Samford Village, Cunnamulla, and Winton – Hughenden secured the silver podium finish, with Toogoolawah claiming the top honour.
Flinders Shire Mayor Kate Peddle said the silver medal was an incredibly proud moment for the entire community and a testament to their collective pride, passion, and commitment.
“This recognition is all about our people – the businesses, volunteers, and residents who go above and beyond to make Hughenden such a warm, welcoming, and memorable place to visit,” Cr Peddle said.
“Our town might be small, but we offer an unforgettable, big experience.
“Whether visitors are uncovering our prehistoric past or exploring our breathtaking natural landmarks, they are always treated to our famous down-to-earth country charm.”
Cr Peddle noted that the prestigious award confirms Hughenden is firmly making its mark on the national tourism map as a must-visit destination for self-drive travellers, particularly the over-50s market and a rapidly-growing family market looking to explore the great outdoors.
“We are seeing more and more travellers fall in love with the wide-open spaces, the scenery, and the unique spirit of our region,” Cr Peddle said.
“This silver medal belongs to every single local who contributes to our town.
“While our incredible tourism team at the Flinders Discovery Centre are the friendly faces welcoming visitors each day and driving our tourism product, this achievement reflects a whole-of-council and community effort.
“From our well-maintained roads and parks to our vibrant events calendar and genuine country hospitality, Hughenden continues to deliver an outstanding visitor experience.
“We have been working hard to showcase what makes us special, and to be named the second-best tiny tourism town in Queensland is a phenomenal result we can all celebrate.”
The award-winning submission highlighted Hughenden’s diverse, accessible, and world-class nature-based and cultural experiences.
Key attractions in the Hughenden region include:
- the spectacular Porcupine Gorge – often referred to as Australia’s Little Grand Canyon
- the panoramic 360-degree sunset views from Mount Walker
- Hughenden's prominent feature on the famous Australian Dinosaur Trail alongside neighbours Winton and Richmond
- a jam-packed annual events calendar headlined by the hugely-popular Hughenden Festival of Outback Skies
- the peaceful Hughenden Recreational Lake, and
- rich historical assets like the Flinders Discovery Centre, home to 'Hughie' the Muttaburrasaurus.
Located approximately halfway between Townsville and Mount Isa on the popular Overlander’s Way tourist drive, Hughenden continues to grow as a vital hub for transport and travellers alike.
“This awards success sets a strong foundation for our region heading into the peak winter tourism season,” added Cr Peddle.
For more information, visit www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-town-awards/2026-queensland-top-tourism-town-finalists/2026-finalist-hughenden