The Central Coast has once again been recognised as a leader in sustainable tourism, placing second in the prestigious global Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards at ITB Berlin 2025. 

The Central Coast has been a consistent finalist in the Top 100 Stories competition for the last four years. This year, the Central Coast placed second in the Nature and Scenery category for its conservation efforts showcased in 'Waterways and Wildlife: Good Turns to Balance Conservation and Visitation'. This recognition reinforces the region’s dedication to protecting its natural landscapes and biodiversity while promoting responsible tourism.

Council Director Community and Recreation Services, Melanie Smith, said the award is a testament to strong collaboration between the Council, tourism operators, and the community.

“This recognition on the global stage showcases the Central Coast as a leading sustainable tourism destination. Our approach to conservation and responsible tourism is key to ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy the region’s natural beauty. We remain committed to working with our community and businesses to foster eco-conscious tourism initiatives.”

The Green Destinations Top 100 Story Awards celebrate inspiring sustainable tourism initiatives worldwide, recognising destinations that excel in conservation and eco-tourism efforts. The Good Practice Story focuses on the development and promotion of water-based ecotourism experiences, highlighting best practice destination management in local government.

The opportunity to enter the Top 100 was made possible through a partnership between Central Coast Council and Ecotourism Australia, as part of the ECO Destination Certification program led by Council since 2020.

Last year, the Central Coast’s Good Practice Story was awarded First Place under the ‘Destination Management’ category.

Council Mayor Lawrie McKinna said this global recognition highlights the Central Coast’s ongoing commitment to sustainability.

“To place second in the Green Destinations Story Awards at ITB Berlin is a significant achievement for our region. It acknowledges our dedication to preserving the environment while providing unique and sustainable tourism experiences for visitors. 

“Our conservation initiatives, such as The Little Tern conservation project and Pelican Time, reflect our efforts to balance visitation with protecting our incredible natural assets.”

Green Destinations is a Netherlands-based organisation working on the assessment, capacity building and certification of destinations and businesses committed to sustainable tourism. The competition is held under the auspices of the Top 100 Partnership, with special contributions by: Green Destinations, QualityCoast, ITB Berlin, Asian Ecotourism Network, Ecotourism Australia, DEL Turismo, Slovenia Green, Global Ecotourism Network and the Future of Tourism Coalition.

For more information of the Central Coast’s Green Destinations Top 100 story, visit the dedicated destination website LoveCentralCoast.com

Image credit - Andrew Robinson