By Michael Burt
Affordable accommodation and a proud team of staff have forged a second gold award for the Belfry Guesthouse at the 2025 North Coast Tourism Awards.
It is the second consecutive gold tourism award for the Belfry team after it scored gold last year for Outstanding Accommodation Experience.
Manager Rowan Simon said Belfry was small fry when it came to the size and scope of the other accommodation nominees from the likes of Byron Bay and Tweed Heads.
“It is quite humbling, especially considering we were up against everyone from Tweed Heads to Hawks Nest,” Rowan said.
“We were like a small fish in a big pond, but we have worked really hard to keep our prices much lower during the cost-of-living crisis, and I think that was a key factor in winning gold again.”
“It’s a bargain for what you get. You can still get a room for $100 right in the heart of the town.”
Rowan said the win also stems from a proud and happy team of staff that enhance Belfry’s communal and welcoming vibe.
“It’s only a small team that works here, but we all love it. If you love where you work, that energy rubs off the guests staying here.”
“I love going to work. I love it as much as I did ten years ago.”
“We are really honoured to be the kind of face and the first port of call for people visiting the Bellingen Shire. We’re really proud of the guesthouse and the region.”
“The guesthouse has a great warm and homely charm with big open wrap around verandas, and the communal kitchen and loungeroom makes it’s very easy to connect with other travelers.”
Rowan said persistent wet weather has impacted the business this year after “phenomenal” 2024.
“It has been a tough few months with Cyclone Alfred, floods and just miserable rainy weather. It is starting to turn around now, and we’re back up to 90 per cent occupancy.”
Belfry won gold in the Hosted Accommodation category at the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards. The awards are partnership between the NSW Tourism Association and Destination North Coast.
The Belfry Guesthouse will now compete in the NSW Tourism Awards later this year. From there, state winners have the opportunity to represent New South Wales at the Australian Tourism Awards in 2026.