For the Age of Fishes Museum, the win in the Specialised Tourism Services Category was a first but for the Old Vic Inn, it was entirely a

different matter in the Standard Accommodation category.

They have joined a rare group of tourism operators to win one of the state tourism

industry’s most prestigious awards three years in a row.

Age of Fishes museum manager Fiona Ferguson said the win was a reward for the countless hours of hard work not just from

herself but from her volunteers.

“I really want to thank not just current but also past volunteers, without whose help, we would never have got there,” Ms Ferguson said.

“I also really want to thank the community of Canowindra, for their ongoing support, plus, of course, our sponsors, who have made these new projects [at the museum] possible.”

For Alison and Graeme Beasley at the Old Vic Inn, the win now puts them in the Awards Hall of Fame.

In fact, three in a row means they are no longer allowed to enter their category and

compete.

“We have to have three years off,” Graeme said laughing on Monday.

“But we are in the Hall of Fame.”

Minister for Tourism, Jodi McKay, said the Awards, held at the Temora Aviation Museum in the heart of the Riverina, showcased some of the best tourism attractions and products in NSW.

“Last night operators and attractions from the Riverina, New England North West, Central NSW and the Outback were recognised,” Ms McKay said.

“I congratulate all 16 winners for their contribution to regional tourism in NSW.

“The calibre of all finalists was truly outstanding and I was very proud to be part of the Awards and to see some of the amazing tourism products we have on offer in NSW.”

While the Beasleys thanked their staff and new manager – their daughter Jenny – they also pointed out it was not just a win for them.

“For a town the size of Canowindra to have five finalists, well, no other town had that,” Graham said.

“It just shows that we are not in the middle of nowhere.”

The other five finalists from the Cowra/Canowindra area were Everview Luxury Cottages, Balloon Joy Flights and Toms Waterhole, The Mill Cellar Door and the Vineyard Motel.

The 16 winners are now set to compete at the NSW Tourism Awards in November.