A friendly but fierce rivalry is reaching its peak across Victoria, with the coastal East Gippsland township of Marlo launching a major public campaign in the final week of voting for the 2026 Victorian Top Tourism Town Awards.
The hidden gem of the Far East has been named a finalist in the prestigious Top Tiny Tourism Town category (catering to populations under 1500), placing the tranquil coastal community alongside some of the state’s most iconic regional destinations. With public voting officially closing this week, the final push is on to secure the state’s top crown.
Managed by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), the annual awards celebrate regional towns that deliver outstanding visitor experiences through collaborative community effort.
Marlo’s nomination is the result of a joint effort between the East Gippsland Shire Council and the Marlo Ratepayers and Residents Association.
The submission was designed to highlight Marlo’s distinct natural beauty, where the Snowy River estuary meets the Southern Ocean, creating a diverse landscape of coast, rainforest, and coastal heathlands.
President of the Marlo Ratepayers and Residents Association, Shayne Boyd, said the finalist selection is a testament to the town’s unique character and cooperative spirit.
“It is wonderful that Marlo has been selected as a finalist,” Ms Boyd said.
“Our entry highlights Marlo’s natural environment – land, sea and sky – and our lovely local community.
“We love sharing and preserving what is so special about Marlo. The goal is to highlight what we love and hopefully attract visitors who value what we have here.”
Local institutions, including the historic Marlo Hotel, Sailors Grave Brewing, Marlo Primary School, and various nearby cafes and caravan parks have actively joined the campaign, urging residents, visitors, and patrons to cast their votes.
Marlo is one of 22 finalist towns competing across three categories based on population size, joining larger regional hubs like Ballarat, Bendigo, Echuca, and Mildura in celebrating regional pride.
VTIC chief executive officer Lisa Patroni noted that the competition has become one of Victoria’s most spirited showcases of regional identity.
“There is always some healthy rivalry between towns, and communities absolutely love getting behind their local destinations,” Ms Patroni said.
“Everyone wants the bragging rights that come with being named one of Victoria’s top tourism destinations.
“Competition is always incredibly close, and with voting closing next week, every vote matters. Sometimes just a handful of votes can separate the finalists.”
Members of the public who cast a vote in the awards will automatically enter the draw to win a luxury Melbourne getaway for two, which includes accommodation at Sofitel Melbourne On Collins, dining vouchers for Lucas Group restaurants, a Shark Dive Xtreme experience at SEA LIFE Melbourne Aquarium, and Ultimate Skydeck packages.
Public voting remains open until 5pm on Friday, June 26, 2026.
To cast your vote and support Marlo’s bid, visit the official voting portal at vtic.com.au/toptourismtown.
