In a sign of healthy competition, a number of categories in this year’s South Coast Tourism Awards have more than one finalist from Kiama.

The Awards, which will be presented in Ulladulla on 26 August, are organised by the South Coast Region-al Tourism Organisation. The organisation is an umbrella body for tourism in the six local government areas of Wollongong City, Shellharbour City, Kiama Municipality, Shoalhaven City, Eurobodalla Shire and Bega Valley Shire.

Kiama businesses and events are finalists in 12 of the 28 categories. By comparison, last year the Kiama LGA had finalists in five categories, with the Sebel Habourside taking out the award for meetings and functions and our Show being judged the best Event/Festival on the South Coast.

Overall there was increased interest in the awards this year, with 33 per cent more applications from across the region.

Operators self-nominate with a comprehensive application, and are then visited by a judge. This process has led to 102 finalists being selected for the 28 categories, so the competition will be tough to get an award.

The local tourism industry has been the beneficiary of the lower Australian dollar, attracting both domestic and overseas visitors.

The categories and finalists are:
Tourism Restaurant 
Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar/Mercure; El Corazon Cocina De Mexico

Meeting & Functions
Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar/Mercure; The Pavilion Kiama

Winery/Pub
Crooked River Wines; Jamberoo Pub & Saleyard Motel

Wedding Planner/Venue
Crooked River Wines

Visitors Centre
Kiama Visitors Centre

Tourist Attraction
Kiama Seaside Markets

Tours/Transport
Foodscape Tours; Kiama Transport Services

Festivals/Events
Kiama Show; Kiama Tourism’s NYE Fireworks

Tourism Retailing
Kiama Farmers’ Market

Self Contained Accommodation
Terralong Terrace Apartments; Bellevue Accommodation

Executive Accommodation
Bella Char Restaurant & Wine Bar/Mercure; Shutters by the Sea

Holiday Rental Services
South Coast Holidays