Gold at the Victorian Tourism Awards: A Win for The Nook and the Gariwerd/Grampians Community.

Wow. I’m still buzzing from Thursday night, and honestly, a little speechless.

I’m thrilled and incredibly humbled to share that Nook On The Hill won the Gold Award for Self-Contained Accommodation at the 2025 Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) Awards.

We are absolutely ecstatic. This award feels so much bigger than just the Nook. It’s a profound moment of morale and recognition for our little corner of Gariwerd/Grampians, which has demonstrated extraordinary perseverance over the last few years.

A Win for Community Resilience

For those who know our story, you know the last couple of years have been a struggle. Our Pomonal community has faced two major bushfires, which devastated the local area and deeply impacted tourism and community wellbeing. People here are exhausted, but they are also talented, creative, joyful and generous.

To win this award now is a bright, positive light. It sends a clear message: we are here, we are strong and we absolutely love sharing this gorgeous part of the world with visitors.

This award is truly for Pomonal, Halls Gap and the surrounding communities.

A 25-Year Family Legacy

The win also holds a deeply personal significance for my family. This year’s gold victory comes exactly 25 years after my parents, Jackie and Robert, won the 2000 Victorian Tourism Award for “Unique Accommodation” with their own beloved local business, Grampians Pioneer Cottages, just 400m down the road.

To follow in their footsteps, celebrating 25 years of family tourism legacy in this incredible region, is truly the cherry on top of this whole incredible journey.

Our Business Model: A Rising Tide

At Nook On The Hill, we live by the philosophy that a “rising tide lifts all boats.” Our success is built entirely on the strength of our local partners.

We reinvest heavily into the hyper-local circular economy here in Gariwerd/Grampians. This award is just as much for the Nook’s dedicated caretaker, Kyle, as it is for the local bakers, wineries and artisans whose beautiful products fill our guest hampers. This recognition is shared with every single one of them. It is proof that a business model built on community and partnership can, and should, be celebrated.

Thank You, Our Wonderful Guests

Most important of all, I need to thank you.

Our wonderful guests have made this journey so rewarding. Sharing this little house and hearing how the space, story and community resonate so much with you all has been incredibly humbling.

It is your continued belief in the Nook and the Gariwerd/Grampians region that keeps us motivated to continue building something resilient and sustainable. We are continuously improving off the back of your feedback to ensure the experience we offer remains truly exceptional.

Thank you again for being part of The Nook’s story. We can’t wait to welcome you back to celebrate with us.

Warmly,
Benj

Nook On The Hill stands as a symbol of hopeful, sustainable and community-first tourism in one of Victoria’s most iconic regions.