Noosa Council has welcomed international recognition naming Noosa Heads one of the Top 10 Most Welcoming Towns on Earth, the only Australian destination to feature in Booking.com’s 14th annual Traveller Review Awards.
The global accolade places the coastal suburb alongside leading destinations worldwide and highlights the enduring appeal of Noosa’s community spirit, lifestyle and natural environment.
Mayor Frank Wilkie said the award reflected the same welcoming atmosphere that has drawn generations of visitors and new residents to the shire. “Many of us moved here after visiting and feeling at home in Noosa, thanks to the shire’s beautiful natural assets and welcoming community,” he said.
“This international recognition as a welcoming place indicates a healthy and inclusive community and reflects the principles in Noosa’s new Destination Management Plan.”
Mayor Frank said the Destination Management Plan positions Noosa as a place where tourism respects the environment while ensuring residents and visitors alike feel connected and valued. “The plan positions Noosa as a place where tourism respects our environment and ensures everyone – residents and visitors alike – feels connected, valued and welcome,” he said. “To be acknowledged internationally for the warmth and authenticity of our community shows we’re on the right path.”
He said the plan emphasises connection, care for country, and community pride – values that align strongly with the behaviours recognised through the Traveller Review Awards. “The aim is to ensure Noosa remains beautiful and welcoming, not just today but for generations to come,” Mayor Frank said. “That means visitors feeling part of the community and understanding the role they play in caring for this special place.”
Simple actions such as disposing of waste responsibly, avoiding single-use plastics, and supporting local businesses all contribute to protecting what makes Noosa special, he said.
Residents and visitors can also expect more opportunities to engage with Noosa’s care-for-place ethos as the For the Love of Noosa program continues to expand. “In coming years we’ll introduce more innovative ways and experiences for both locals and visitors to give back, get involved, and help keep Noosa vibrant, protected and welcoming,” Mayor Frank said. “This recognition reinforces that Noosa’s greatest strength is its people and the pride we all take in caring for this remarkable place.”