Wotif names Bundaberg second best destination in nation

Australian travel company Wotif has revealed why Bundaberg has been named the second best destination to visit in the country and the top in Queensland.

The Bundaberg Rum Visitor Centre is one of the region’s big tourism drawcards. Picture: Adam Head.

It’s no secret many Bundaberg locals feel their town is a hidden gem, but now Australian travel company Wotif has confirmed it.

Bundaberg was named the second best destination in the nation for aspiring travellers to visit for 2023,and was on top of the list for Queensland.

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Wotif said the combination of affordable accommodation and close access to the Great Barrier Reef were some highlights.

“Bundaberg might be most famous for its signature rum distillery, but did you know that it also produces 25% of Australia’s freshly grown produce,” Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said.

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“That means if you’re a foodie, Bundy’s annual Taste Festival Farmers Market is a must-do (and must-eat) event.”

The results are based on a number of data sets including 2022’s accommodation demand, trending traveller interest and reviews.

Bundaberg Tourism chief executive Katherine Reid said it was a welcomed confirmation of the region’s tourism attractions.

“This is certainly a well-deserved tribute for a region that works passionately to present its reef, culinary and nature-based experiences along with warm hospitality from locals in the most refreshing way,” she said.

“With the first two islands of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Musgrave and Lady Elliot on our doorstep, our growing culinary scene with produce being grown, brewed, distilled, and caught all year-round (Bundaberg) is a destination that is welcoming, sustainably conscious and a great place for a holiday.”

Bundaberg Tourism CEO Katherine Reid was instrumental in boosting Bundaberg tourism. Photo: Paul Beutel.

As part of naming Bundaberg as the second best destination, Wotif named the Burnett Riverside Hotel as the place to stay for visitors.

Bundaberg Mayor Jack Dempsey also welcomed the news.

“The Bundaberg Region came through the initial Covid outbreak in a strong position, due in no small part to the strength of our tourism industry, and has maintained momentum,” he said.

“We’re recovering faster than the state average and this announcement, aligning with confirmation of high migration numbers to our region, shows how highly sought-after our liveability and lifestyle really is.”

Bundaberg’s proximity to the Southern Great Barrier Reef is a major drawcard for tourists seeking a natural connection.

The award comes as almost half of Australians plan to travel during the upcoming Easter long weekend, with many of them eyeing of destinations in their home state.

“By all accounts, Aussies remain committed to travelling locally in 2023,” Mrl 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. “

See the list:

#10. Echuca, Victoria.

#9. Orange, New South Wales.

#8. Dunsborough, Western Australia.

#7. Toowoomba, Queensland.

#6. Merimbula, New South Wales.

#5. Ballarat, Victoria.

#4. Port Lincoln, South Australia.

#3. New Norfolk, Tasmania.

#2. Bundaberg, Queensland.

#1. Albury, New South Wales.

Originally published as Wotif names Bundaberg second best destination in nation