Kingston SE is celebrating after a town attraction has been named as a finalist in the national Grey Nomad Awards.
The Kingston walking trails have been short-listed in the 2021 Best Grey Nomad Trail category after proving to tourism leaders that it provided an exceptional experience for visitors aged over 50 despite 2021 being one of the hardest tourism years in Australia’s history.
Awards Director Kim Morgan said the Grey Nomad Awards shine a light on regional Australia by rewarding organisations and destinations that cater to mature age visitors in an exemplary way.
“In this way, the awards are fostering a better lifestyle for over 50s by providing verified information that will guide their decisions on where to travel safely in 2022, where to stay and what to experience along the way,” she said.
Ms Morgan said the ongoing uncertainty that faced tourism businesses throughout last year made it especially challenging for them to face each day with confidence and the unwavering customer focus that is necessary to be recognised in these Grey Nomad Awards.
“This means we especially want to acknowledge the tremendous commitment Kingston District Council in creating the Kingston SE Walking Trails and other finalists demonstrated this past year,” Ms Morgan said.
The Grey Nomad Awards are judged by mature-age tourism professionals, some of whom have experienced the grey nomad lifestyle personally, adding weight to the Kingston walking trails’ success as a finalist.
Kingston boasts an enviable network of sealed, all access, well-lit trails that provide safe and non-undulating walking options.
Stretching 10km along grass, dunes and beach foreshore, the trails link the town centre, Caravan and RV Parks and picturesque Maria Creek. Included on the trails are 35 historic markers and numerous public artworks.
The judges congratulated the council saying “we love these trails all link, have sensor activated solar lights and that council provides a state-of-the-art trackway to the beach in summer to make access easy for anyone with mobility issues”.
Winners in all 11 categories will be announced on March 4 during an online celebration.
