Albany flying in tourist ranks, named WA’s top town for second year running

Albany has been ranked as WA’s top tourist destination for the second year running by leading travel website Wotif.com. Wotif announced the winners of its Aussie Town of the Year Awards today, listing Albany at No.7 ahead of the only other WA town to crack a mention, Margaret River (No. 9). The awards are based on a Wotif data index that ranks Australian destinations on affordability, well-rated accommodation and increasing traveller interest over the past 12 months. Albany might not get the same level of marketing support the State Government affords to Margaret River but the city’s natural and cultural attributes seem to be making an impression on tourists. “(Albany is) as close as you’ll get to a historic European city in WA,” Wotif said in its announcement. “Albany is the western State’s oldest European settlement, with a rich history and fantastic family appeal.” City of Albany Mayor Dennis Wellington said he was pleased with the result, particularly the fact Albany had again beaten Margaret River which he described as an “idol” of WA’s tourism industry. “We’ve taken them on in the last couple of years to win it,” Mr Wellington said. “Margaret River has done a better job of marketing in the past, but now I think we’re taking it up to them ... our product is pretty good, what we have to offer is substantially better than others.” Wotif managing director Daniel Finch said the 2020 awards came at an “incredibly tough time” for many parts of the country. Research conducted by Wotif found Australia was experiencing a “resurgence” of domestic tourism in the wake of a devastating summer of bushfires across the country. The outbreak of COVID-19 would only add to the surge in domestic holidays. “Australians are spoilt for choice in Australia and our annual Aussie Town of the Year initiative is a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the many towns, cities and regions worthy of the spotlight,” Mr Finch said.