Yallingup the best

Domestic travel magazine Australian Traveller has reinforced what many residents of the small town have long known — Yallingup is the best town in Australia.

Citing its close proximity to world class beaches and wineries the town of 1000 people beat Noosa and Byron Bay in a major tourism boost for the region.

City of Busselton Mayor Grant Henley said the acknowledgement was a wonderful promotion on a national and global scale for tourism providers.

“The town of Yallingup and the City of Busselton more broadly has received great media coverage as a result of this award.

This award recognises the work that’s been done to improve the foreshore area and is particularly timely as we continue to negotiate with airlines to secure a regular airline provider at the Busselton Margaret River Airport.”

However, Yallingup resident Bede Allan said he would have preferred if the quality of town had been kept a secret.

“I’d prefer if all the tourists stayed away, we know how good the place is — that’s why we live here,” he said.

Busselton Margaret River Tourism Association joint chief executive Sharna Kearney said it was fabulous and would increase awareness, desire and intention to visit the region.

“This accolade is a further boost for our region following Lonely Planet naming the Margaret River region the top place to visit in the Asia Pacific, and the region featuring on Masterchef Australia,” she said.

“The ability of the region to secure this kind of media is underpinned by our incredible natural beauty, the warm and friendly welcome that locals provide, and the high quality tourism experiences we have on offer.”