Back-To-Back Gold: The Belfry Guesthouse Celebrates Consecutive Wins

Photo: Rowan Simon, the Belfry Guesthouse Manager, receiving gold at the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards

Bellingen Shire’s beloved The Belfry Guesthouse has once again been recognised as one of the North Coast’s premier tourism experiences, winning Gold in the Hosted Accommodation category at the 2025 North Coast Regional Tourism Awards, held in Byron Bay on 31 July. 

Known for its relaxed charm, heritage character and panoramic views of the Dorrigo mountain ranges and the Bellinger River, The Belfry blends style with sustainability and a distinctly Bellingen spirit.  

Mayor Cr. Steve Allan said that The Belfry Guesthouse’s success is a shining example of the power of small-scale, independent accommodation to deliver meaningful and memorable travel experiences. 

“Bellingen Shire continues to punch above its weight when it comes to visitor appeal, with local operators like The Belfry leading the way in regional pride and exceptional hospitality,” said Mayor Allan. 

“Not only are they creating quality experiences for visitors, they also actively support local events, artists and environmental groups. We are very proud of their much-deserved Tourism Awards two years in a row.” 

The Belfry Guesthouse is an example of connected, sustainable and creative tourism which supports a resilient economy while balancing the needs of residents, businesses and visitors. 

Rowan Simon, The Belfry Guesthouse Manager, is thrilled to receive a second consecutive year of Gold for The Belfry, following on from their 2024 win for Outstanding Accommodation Experience, solidifying their reputation as a standout provider of warm, welcoming, and uniquely local stays in the Bellingen Shire. 

“To receive Gold two years in a row is an incredible honour in this vast region,” said Mr Simon. 

“It’s a credit to our team, our beautiful community, and the guests who inspire us every day to keep evolving and delivering something special. We love being the first stop to so many visitors in our beautiful, stunning area that we call home.’’ 

Bellingen Shire Council supports tourism as a key industry for the region to bring much needed investment and vitality to the local economy. The Visit Bellingen Shire website, which is the destination brand of Bellingen Shire Council, supports local tourism businesses by providing a digital platform for visitors to plan where to stay, eat and play during their visit.