Lifestyle & Entertainment
26 March, 2026
Gold in The Grampians
THE Grampians region has featured extremely well in the recent Qantas Australian Tourism Awards, which were presented at a gala dinner in Fremantle. After winning first place in their respective categories at last year’s Victorian Tourism Awards, Pomonal’s eco-luxury tiny house, Nook On The Hill, took home a gold medal in the Self-Contained Accommodation section, and Mount William Station was awarded gold for its 5-Star Luxury Accommodation.
The national accolades place both properties among Australia’s leading luxury accommodation experiences, recognising a new generation of regional destinations delivering world-class hospitality in remarkable natural settings.
Fourth-generation owner Mount William Station owner, Will Abbott said he was delighted hard work and determination has paid off.
“Our goal has always been simple — to create a place where guests feel genuinely welcomed, slow down for a few days, and connect with the landscape.”
“To go from being just seven hundred metres from losing everything during the Boxing Day bushfires in 2024, to being named Australia’s top 5-star accommodation twelve months later, feels quite surreal. It’s a testament to the resilience of our region and the people who help make Mount William Station such a special place.”
Nook on the Hill’s victory’ also marks a surreal milestone for owner Benj Bailey-Web, especially because in its first two summers of operation it survived two devastating bushfires.
He dedicated the win to The Nook’s caretaker, Kyle James.
"This business is what it is because of your incredible work, passion and pride."
"They say it takes a village to raise a child. Well, I don't have a child, but I certainly know now that it takes a village to build a business. It wouldn't be here without our local Pomonal partners and the wider Grampians community. This one is for Pomonal."
Read More: Ararat