Western Downs’ residents encouraged to vote for Miles in this year’s Tourism Awards

A small Western Downs town four hours from Brisbane has been nominated in the 2025 Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Top Tourism Town Awards.

With a population of about 1500 people, Miles is one of the country’s finest regional towns and with your help could soon be crowned a ‘Top Small Tourism Town’

Famous for its Historical Village Museum, stunning street art and the beautiful wonders of Chinaman’s Lagoon and Possum Park the town has been nominated in the 2025 Queensland Tourism Industry Council’s Top Tourism Town Awards.

The awards are divided into three categories, a tiny town with a population below 1500, a small town with between 1500 – 5000 residents, and the Top Tourism Town award with a population of 5000.

Miles will compete against Agnes Water, Airlie Beach, Cloncurry, Ingham and Kilcoy to take home the gong of ‘Top Small Tourism Town’.

Western Downs Regional Council Mayor Andrew Smith said the nomination was a fantastic opportunity to showcase one of the region’s most vibrant communities.

“Miles might be small in size but it is a giant in terms of heart, hospitality, and natural beauty, so it’s no surprise that Queensland’s peak tourism body has named the town as a finalist in these prestigious awards,” Mr Smith said in a press release.

“From its stunning traffic-stopping streetscape to the unique art showcases at Dogwood Creek Gallery and the historic sights of Miles Historical Village Museum to the tranquil wonders of Chinaman’s Lagoon or Possum Park, the town of Miles never ceases to impress.

“Miles’ unique combination of natural beauty and country charm makes it a top tourist spot for everyone from grey nomads winding their way across the Western Downs to families looking for a tree change holiday.

“One thing that Miles has that no other finalist can replicate is the amazing local community that goes out of its way to provide visitors with unforgettable experiences, warm welcomes, and a friendly ‘g’day’ no matter where you’re from.”

He called on Western Downs locals to get their votes in for Miles.

“We know that ‘it’s the people that make it’ on the Western Downs, so be sure to get your vote in before Saturday 17 May and help Miles be recognised as the wonderful town and fantastic tourism destination that it is.”

Miles residents, and members of the wider Western Downs region, have until Saturday 17 May to vote here: www.qtic.com.au/top-tourism-town-awards/