Stories/Sovereign Hill strikes gold at Victorian Tourism Awards

Sovereign Hill strikes gold at Victorian Tourism Awards

28 Nov, 2025
Hands working on wet surface with tools. Close-up of traditional craftsmanship process of gold panning in Ballarat

Sovereign Hill has struck gold once again, taking home Gold for Excellence in Accessible Tourism at the 2025 Victorian Tourism Awards.

This is a proud moment for every staff, volunteer, supporter, and visitor who helps shape the Sovereign Hill experience. 

This year’s win marks the second year in a row that Sovereign Hill has received this honour, recognising our ongoing commitment to creating an inclusive, welcoming experience for everyone.

Accessibility sits at the heart of our visitor experience, and this award recognises the work our teams do every day to make our museum welcoming and inclusive for everyone. We’re proud to be leading the way in accessible tourism in Victoria, and this recognition strengthens our commitment to breaking down barriers and creating experiences that all visitors can enjoy.

Sara Quon, Sovereign Hill CEO

The Victorian Tourism Awards, presented by the Victorian Tourism Industry Council (VTIC), celebrate leadership, innovation, and excellence across the state’s tourism sector.

Accessibility at the heart of the experience

Accessibility is an important part of how we design, plan, and deliver everything we do. From the way visitors move through the outdoor museum to how they engage with our events, programs, and spaces, we continually look for ways to make the experience more enjoyable for all.

What accessibility looks like at Sovereign Hill

Over the past few years, we’ve invested in expanding and improving our accessible offerings. Some of the key initiatives include:

  • Improved wayfinding to help visitors navigate the museum with confidence
  • Sensory-friendly programming tailored for guests who experience sensory sensitivities
  • Upgraded pathways to enhance mobility access across the site
  • Accessible gold panning, ensuring the ultimate treasure hunt is available to all
  • Auslan-supported guides and events to improve access
  • Social scripts to help visitors plan their day

Help support Sovereign Hill

By supporting Sovereign Hill, you help preserve a place where history is lived, not just told. Every contribution helps us care for our heritage site and continue the important work we do in conservation, education and storytelling.

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